I have trouble visualizing simple harmonic motion, and remembering all the related equations. How should I think about it?

The key is to realize that displacement, velocity and acceleration all vary sinusoidally, with the graph of each being displaced relative to the preceding one by 90 degrees; thinking about these three graphs, and how they describe the motion of a horizontal mass-spring system, will give you an intuitive understanding of the dynamics of simple harmonic motion (SHM).Knowing the defining equation of SHM, a = -w2x, and remembering that x, v and a are all sine or cosine functions, you can derive all the equations by simply applying Newton's laws to the system. Do this once, and see how each equation arises from the underlying physics; this will help you remember them, because you'll know what they mean and why they're true.

GC
Answered by Gianluca C. Physics tutor

2157 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

In an electric propulsion system, alpha particles are accelerated through a potential difference of 100kV at an average rate of 10^20 alpha particles per second. Calculate the average thrust the system can provide.


A crane is attached to one end of a steel girder, and lifts that end into the air. When the cable attached to the end of the girder is at 20 degrees to the vertical, the tension is 6.5kN. Calculate the horizontal and vertical components of this force.


A light wave with wavelength 590nm shines upon a metal and causes it to emit an electron with a speed of 5x10^5 m/s. What is the work function of the metal?


Initially, trucks A and B are travelling in opposite directions. A has mass 1000 kg and is travelling at speed 7ms^-1. B has mass 4000kg and is travelling at speed 2ms^-1. What is their speed and direction after collision if they move together?


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