The principles of simple harmonic motion

Question 1

For any sinusoidal graph:

Answer 1

• At a peak or trough the gradient = 0
• If the gradient is maximum in the positive direction then the graph formed from the gradient will have a peak
• If the gradient is maximum in the negative direction then the graph formed from the gradient will have a trough.

Question 2

Explain the variation of velocity with time.

Answer 2

• The magnitude of the velocity is greatest when the gradient of the displacement-time is greatest.
• The velocity is zero when the gradient of the displacement-time graph is zero.

Question 3

Explain the variation of acceleration with time.

Answer 3

• The magnitude of the acceleration is greatest when the gradient of the velocity-time is greatest.
• The acceleration is zero when the gradient of the velocity-time graph is zero.

Question 4

What is SHM?

Answer 4

The motion of an object if its acceleration is proportional to the displacement of the object from equilibrium and is always directed towards the equilibrium position.