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IB Physics HL C.1.1 Conditions for Simple Harmonic Motion Question Bank

Practise IB Physics HL C.1.1 by testing restoring-force proportionality, equilibrium direction and the limits of SHM models.

Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Course
Physics HL
Level
HL

Exam points

  • Deduce SHM from a restoring force proportional to displacement and opposite in direction.
  • Use force–distance or energy evidence to reject a motion that is not simple harmonic.
  • Explain why small displacement makes nonlinear restoring forces approximate simple harmonic motion.

C.1.1—Conditions for SHM question 1

[Maximum number: 2]

One end of a light spring is attached to a rigid horizontal support.

Figure for Question C.1.1—Conditions for SHM question 1 — IB Physics HL

An object W of mass 0.15 kg is suspended from the other end of the spring. The extension x of the spring is proportional to the force F causing the extension. The force per unit extension of the spring k is 18Nm−118 \mathrm{Nm}^{-1}.

A student pulls W down such that the extension of the spring increases by 0.040 m . The student releases W and as a result W performs simple harmonic motion (SHM).

State what is meant by the expression "W performs SHM".

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