Exam-style question
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A mass attached to a spring oscillates in simple harmonic motion. If the displacement of the mass is 0.2 m and the acceleration is 4 m/s², calculate the angular frequency of the motion. Scenario focus: use centripetal acceleration in a distinct A-Level Physics context and identify the relevant physical quantity before choosing the answer.
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- The angular frequency is 10 rad/s.
Explanation
Why this works
The correct answer is The angular frequency is 10 rad/s.. This option is correct for Periodic motion because it applies the centripetal acceleration 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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