17.1.2—Simple harmonic motion occurs when acceleration is proportional to
- Syllabus
- 9702–2028–2029
- Objective
- 17.1.2
- Level
- A2
Simple harmonic motion has acceleration proportional to displacement and directed toward equilibrium
Simple harmonic motion occurs when a=−ω²x: acceleration is proportional to displacement x from equilibrium and opposite in direction.
The restoring condition must hold throughout the motion. At equilibrium x=0 and speed is greatest; at an extreme x=±A and acceleration magnitude is greatest.
A mass on an ideal spring oscillates about its equilibrium position because the spring force reverses as the mass crosses the centre.
Constant acceleration is not SHM; the acceleration changes sign and magnitude with displacement.
ConceptA-Level CAIE Physics A2