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

28705 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

A ball is launched upwards at 30 degrees to horizontal with a velocity of 20 metres per second, how far does it travel before landing? (no air resistance)


How would you calculate the vertical and horizontal components of the velocity of an object with an initial velocity of 15m/s which is travelling upwards at an angle of 30 degrees to the horizontal?


Show that a mass on a spring obeys simple harmonic motion.


What is a neutrino?


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:

© 2026 by IXL Learning