Describe simple harmonic motion (SHM). Sketch a displacement-time graph for a particle undergoing SHM and the corresponding velocity-time and acceleration-time graphs. Use these graphs to describe the relationship between accleration and displacment.

Simple harmonic motion is periodic motion in which a restoring force acts in the opposite direction to that of displacement and is directly proportional to the displacement.The displacement-time graph for SHM should be of sinusoidal form. As should the velocity-time and acceleration-time graphs but should be shifted by a half/full period in the x-direction respectively.Acceleration-time graph flipped in x-axis compared to displacement-time graph. Therefore, acceleration is in the opposite direction but equal in magnitude (hence directly proportional) to displacement. Student should recognise that restoring force = mass * acceleration hence, relate these statements to those in the definition of SHM above.

Answered by David G. Physics tutor

3986 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

A capacitor discharge circuit of time constant 45ms includes a capacitor and resistor. The capacitor has a capacitance of 18µF What is the resistance of the resistor?


Why is the refractive index of water bigger than that of air?


Do heavier objects fall on the ground quicker?


Using Newton's law of universal gravitation, show that T^2 is proportional to r^3 (where T is the orbital period of a planet around a star, and r is the distance between them).


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences