Graphs relating to simple harmonic motion

In summary, D is wrong because it does not account for a variable acceleration. 5 is the right answer.
  • #1
RoboNerd
410
11

Homework Statement



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Homework Equations


None.

The Attempt at a Solution


Hi everyone. Apparently 5 is the right answer, although I chose D.

Could anyone please weigh in with their thoughts about why 5 is right and my answer is apparently wrong?

Thanks!
 
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  • #2
Please explain how you got your answer.
 
  • #3
Velocity can also be negative...
 
  • #4
Physics-Tutor said:
Velocity can also be negative...
True, but that does not rule out any of the graphs. There is no claim that the graph represents an entire cycle. There is a better reason for choosing 5. What would the graph of velocity actually look like?

Edit: please do not post an answer to that on this thread, at least not until RoboNerd has had a chance to answer it.
 
  • #5
Hi everyone, robonerd is back, of course.

I know that at xmin and max, the velocity [with kinetic energy] = 0 instantaneously. Thus, I narrow down to B and D.
However, I know that with a variable spring force giving a variable acceleration, I will not have the velocity changing in a linear manner [constant acceleration with constant slope], so I rule out B. D is thus a potential answer. Why is D wrong?
 
  • #6
RoboNerd said:
Hi everyone, robonerd is back, of course.

I know that at xmin and max, the velocity [with kinetic energy] = 0 instantaneously. Thus, I narrow down to B and D.
However, I know that with a variable spring force giving a variable acceleration, I will not have the velocity changing in a linear manner [constant acceleration with constant slope], so I rule out B. D is thus a potential answer. Why is D wrong?
Can you write an equation relating velocity and x?
 
  • #7
Yes. Using conservation of energy I have:

( 1 / 2 ) * k * A^2 = a constant value = (1 / 2) * m * v^2 + ( 1/ 2) * k * x^2
 
  • #8
RoboNerd said:
Yes. Using conservation of energy I have:

( 1 / 2 ) * k * A^2 = a constant value = (1 / 2) * m * v^2 + ( 1/ 2) * k * x^2
Good. Can you recognise that form as a common shape? (Think of v as the y coordinate.)
 

FAQ: Graphs relating to simple harmonic motion

What is simple harmonic motion?

Simple harmonic motion is a type of periodic motion in which an object moves back and forth in a regular pattern. It is characterized by a restoring force that is proportional to the displacement of the object from its equilibrium position.

How is simple harmonic motion represented on a graph?

Simple harmonic motion is typically represented on a graph by plotting the displacement of the object on the y-axis and time on the x-axis. This results in a sinusoidal curve known as a sine wave.

What is the equation for simple harmonic motion?

The equation for simple harmonic motion is x(t) = A sin(ωt + φ), where x is the displacement of the object, A is the amplitude, ω is the angular frequency, and φ is the phase angle.

What is the relationship between the period and frequency of simple harmonic motion?

The period of simple harmonic motion is the time it takes for one complete oscillation, while the frequency is the number of oscillations per unit time. The relationship between the two is T = 1/f, where T is the period and f is the frequency.

How does the amplitude affect simple harmonic motion?

The amplitude of simple harmonic motion determines the maximum displacement of the object from its equilibrium position. A larger amplitude results in a wider oscillation, while a smaller amplitude results in a narrower oscillation.

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