Exam-style question
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A simple harmonic oscillator has a maximum displacement of 0.5 m and a time period of 2 seconds. Calculate the maximum speed of the oscillator. Scenario focus: use thermal physics in a distinct A-Level Physics context and identify the relevant physical quantity before choosing the answer.
- A.1.57 m/s
- B.0.79 m/s
- C.3.14 m/s
- D.0.25 m/s
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- 0.79 m/s
Explanation
Why this works
The correct answer is 0.79 m/s. This option is correct for Periodic motion because it applies the thermal physics idea in the stem and keeps the relevant quantity, unit, and physical conclusion together.
The alternatives either use a neighbouring formula, omit a required variable, or describe a different physical situation.
Common mistake
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