IB Physics SL C.1.6 SHM graphs

Read and sketch SHM displacement, velocity and acceleration graphs, keeping the correct signs, phase shifts and turning points.

Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Objective
—
Level
SL

Exam points

  • choose the correct v-t, x-t or a-t graph from stated release conditions such as rest at -x
  • sketch a velocity-time graph for one period with the correct sinusoidal shape, amplitude and T
  • use a labelled SHM graph to identify where velocity is zero or where acceleration is negative

C.1.6—SHM graphs question 1

[Maximum number: 2]

This question is in two parts. Part 1 is about solar radiation and the greenhouse effect. Part 2 is about a mass on a spring.

Part 1 Solar radiation and the greenhouse effect
The following data are available.

Table for Question C.1.6—SHM graphs question 1 — IB Physics SL

Question (a)

(a)

Outline the conditions necessary for the object to execute simple harmonic motion.

[ 2 ]

Question (i)

(i)

The sketch graph below shows how the displacement of the object from point O varies with time over three time periods.

Figure for Question (i) — IB Physics SL

(i) Label with the letter A a point at which the magnitude of the acceleration of the object is a maximum.

[ 1 ]

Question (ii)

(ii)

Label with the letter V a point at which the speed of the object is a maximum.

[ 1 ]
All question bank results loaded