Exam-style question
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Explain how the acceleration of an object in simple harmonic motion varies with its displacement from the equilibrium position.
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- In simple harmonic motion, the acceleration of the object is given by the formula a = -ω²x, where a is the acceleration, ω is the angular frequency, and x is the displacement from the equilibrium position.
- This indicates that the acceleration is always directed towards the equilibrium position and is proportional to the displacement.
Explanation
Why this works
This answer effectively demonstrates the relationship between acceleration and displacement in SHM, reinforcing the concept that acceleration is negative when displacement is positive and vice versa. The question assesses the ability to connect mathematical relationships to physical motion.
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