What is simple harmonic motion?
State five examples of bodies performing simple harmonic motion
Simple harmonic motion (SHM) is a type of periodic motion where an object oscillates back and forth around a stable equilibrium position. It occurs when the restoring force acting on the object is directly proportional to the object's displacement from equilibrium and is directed towards the equilibrium position.
Examples of bodies performing simple harmonic motion include:
1. Pendulum: The swinging motion of a pendulum, such as a grandfather clock, exhibits simple harmonic motion.
2. Mass-Spring System: The oscillation of a mass attached to a spring, like a mass suspended on a vertical spring, is an example of SHM.
3. Vibrating Guitar String: When a guitar string is plucked, it vibrates in a way that follows simple harmonic motion.
4. Torsional Pendulum: A torsional pendulum, such as a clock's balance wheel or a wire with a weighted disk at its end twisted and released, shows simple harmonic motion.
5. Water Waves: The oscillation of water particles in a body of water due to waves can be modeled as simple harmonic motion.
Simple Harmonic Motion (SHM) refers to a type of periodic motion in which a body oscillates back and forth around a stable equilibrium position, following a specific pattern. It occurs when the net force acting on the body is directly proportional to the displacement from that equilibrium position and is directed towards the equilibrium position.
Here are five examples of bodies performing Simple Harmonic Motion:
1. Pendulum: A pendulum is a classic example of SHM, where a mass is attached to a fixed support by a string or rod. The mass oscillates back and forth, following a sinusoidal pattern.
2. Spring-mass system: When a mass is attached to a spring and displaced from its equilibrium position, it undergoes SHM. The spring will stretch or compress, and the mass will oscillate around its equilibrium position.
3. Vibrating tuning fork: A tuning fork vibrates when struck, producing a sound. The prongs of the tuning fork oscillate symmetrically, resulting in simple harmonic motion.
4. Mass-spring-damper system: In engineering, a mass-spring-damper system is often used to model oscillatory systems. The mass undergoes simple harmonic motion due to the interplay of the mass, the spring, and the damping force.
5. Ocean waves: Although more complex than the other examples, ocean waves can be considered as bodies performing simple harmonic motion. When the waves interact with the shoreline, their crests and troughs oscillate up and down, exhibiting SHM characteristics.