Give the definition simple harmonic motion and write down the defining equation for such motion stating the meaning of any symbols involved.

Simple harmonic motion is defined as a form of periodic motion in which a point or body oscillates in such a way that the acceleration of the point or body is directly proportional to its displacement from the equilibrium position (midpoint) and this acceleration is directed toward the equilibrium position. The defining equation is a = -w2x, where a is the acceleration of the point or body, w its angular frequency (angular displacement per unit time) of the point or body and x is the displacement of the point or body from the equilibrium position. Note the importance of the negative sign in the equation, which shows the acceleration is directed toward the equilibrium position.

BH
Answered by Benjamin H. Physics tutor

22169 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

How does a potential divider work?


Explain the process of annihilation?


Explain how the photoelectric effect gives evidence for the photon theory of light.


Show that the orbital period of a satellite is given by T^2=(4pi^2r^3)/(GM) where r is the orbital radius, G is the gravitational constant and M is the mass of the Earth. Then find the orbital radius of a geostationary satellite.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning