Simple Harmonic Motion and Hooke's Law

Question 1

What is simple harmonic motion (SHM)?

Answer 1

A form of periodic motion in which the acceleration of the particle is always directed towards the equilibrium point and proportional to the displacement from that point.

Question 2

State Hooke’s law.

Answer 2

Whenever an object is deformed through bending, stretching or compression, there is a restoring force that is directly proportional to the displacement, as long as the elastic limit is not exceeded.

Question 3

What is damping?

Answer 3

An effect that reduces the amplitude of oscillations (swings or movements) in an oscillatory system (one that moves with periodic regularity). Examples include air resistance, gravity and friction.

Question 4

Define the term ‘oscillating’.

Answer 4

To move or swing back and forth with a steady rhythm.

Question 5

What are some examples of SHM?

Answer 5

• Tidal motion of water
• A spring oscillating about a point
• A pendulum oscillating
• The shadow of a particle undergoing circular motion
• A block pushed towards a spring on a frictionless surface
• A tuning fork vibrating