Simple Harmonic Oscillator: Kinetic and Potential Energy Equilibrium

In summary, a simple harmonic oscillator is a type of motion where an object moves back and forth between two points, with its displacement being directly proportional to the restoring force acting on it. The equation for a simple harmonic oscillator is F = -kx, where F is the restoring force, k is the spring constant, and x is the displacement from the equilibrium point. The period of a simple harmonic oscillator is given by T = 2π√(m/k), where m is the mass of the object and k is the spring constant. The amplitude of a simple harmonic oscillator does not affect its period or frequency, but it does affect its maximum potential and kinetic energy. Common real-life examples of simple harmonic oscillators include a swing,
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Skotta
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Homework Statement



A simple harmonic oscillator has an amplitude of 0.1 m. At what displacement will its kinetic and potential energies be equal?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


I'm trying to figure out how to solve this problem but I'm totally stuck and even don't know how to get started since only the amplitude is known and nothing else. I would be incredible happy, if somebody could help me with this problem.
 
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  • #2
How do you find potential energy of a harmonic oscillator at any particular displacement?
 

FAQ: Simple Harmonic Oscillator: Kinetic and Potential Energy Equilibrium

What is a simple harmonic oscillator?

A simple harmonic oscillator is a type of motion where an object moves back and forth between two points, with its displacement being directly proportional to the restoring force acting on it.

What is the equation for a simple harmonic oscillator?

The equation for a simple harmonic oscillator is F = -kx, where F is the restoring force, k is the spring constant, and x is the displacement from the equilibrium point.

What is the period of a simple harmonic oscillator?

The period of a simple harmonic oscillator is the time it takes for one complete cycle of motion, and it is given by T = 2π√(m/k), where m is the mass of the object and k is the spring constant.

How does the amplitude affect a simple harmonic oscillator?

The amplitude of a simple harmonic oscillator is the maximum displacement of the object from its equilibrium point. It does not affect the period or frequency of the oscillator, but it does affect the maximum potential and kinetic energy of the system.

What are some real-life examples of simple harmonic oscillators?

Some common examples of simple harmonic oscillators include a swing, a pendulum, a mass-spring system, and a guitar string. These systems exhibit simple harmonic motion when acted upon by a restoring force, such as gravity or tension.

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