IB Physics SL C.4.5 Damping & resonance

Practise damping and resonance by using decay data, Q factor equations, and resonance curves to predict oscillation behaviour.

Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Objective
—
Level
SL

Exam points

  • use the Q equation with energy loss data or peak amplitudes from a graph to calculate the Q factor
  • compare resonance graphs to show that greater damping lowers the peak amplitude and shifts the peak left
  • use successive peak heights in a data table or graph to estimate later amplitude or energy lost per cycle

C.4.5—Damping and resonance question 1

[Maximum number: 4]

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.4.5—Damping and resonance question 1 — IB Physics SL

Question (a)

(a)

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

[ 2 ]

Question (i)

(i)

Sketch on the same axes a graph of how the displacement varies with time if a small frictional force acts on the object.

[ 2 ]

Question (b)

(b)

Point P now begins to move from side to side with a small amplitude and at a variable driving frequency f. The frictional force is still small.

At each value of f, the object eventually reaches a constant amplitude A.
The graph shows the variation with f of A.

Figure for Question (b) — IB Physics SL
[ 2 ]

Question (i)

(i)

On the same axes, draw a graph to show the variation with f of A when the frictional force acting on the object is increased.

[ 2 ]
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