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IB Physics HL C 1 5 Mass Spring Period Questions

Practise IB Physics HL C.1.5 by applying total-energy scaling to spring and gravitational systems, speed, amplitude and displacement data.

Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Course
Physics HL
Level
HL

Exam points

  • Use E = ½mω²A² or equivalent energy relations to compare amplitude, period and total energy.
  • Convert elastic or gravitational potential energy into speed at equilibrium or another position.
  • Interpret energy graphs and determine where kinetic and potential energy are equal.

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Study C.1.5—Mass–spring period conceptsOpen the corresponding Concept lesson for explanations, examples and exam connections.

IB Physics HL C 1 5 Mass Spring Period Questions question 1

[Maximum number: 5]

This question is in two parts. Part 1 is about simple harmonic motion (SHM). Part 2 is about gas in an engine.

Part 1 Simple harmonic motion (SHM)
An object is placed on a frictionless surface. The object is attached by a spring fixed at one end and oscillates at the end of the spring with simple harmonic motion (SHM).

Figure for Question IB Physics HL C 1 5 Mass Spring Period Questions question 1 — IB Physics HL

The tension F in the spring is given by F=k x where x is the extension of the spring and k is a constant.

Question (a)

(a)

The graph shows the variation of the potential energy of A with displacement.

Figure for Question (a) — IB Physics HL

On the axes,

[ 5 ]

Question (i)

(i)

draw a graph to show the variation of kinetic energy with displacement for the mass in A. Label this A.

[ 2 ]

Question (ii)

(ii)

sketch a graph to show the variation of kinetic energy with displacement for the mass in B. Label this B.

[ 3 ]
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