Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Energy in simple harmonic motion
Energy in simple harmonic motion — practice question
A student examines the energy changes for a mass oscillating on a vertical spring, as shown in Fig. 4.1. The student sketches a graph showing how energy $E$ of the oscillation varies with displacement $x$, as shown in Fig. 4.2.
(a)[1]
State whether $E$ is the total energy, the potential energy or the kinetic energy of the oscillations.
(b)[3]
The student carries out the investigation again, this time using a smaller amplitude. The maximum value of $E$ is now $1.8\,\text{mJ}$. Use Fig. 4.2 to find the change in amplitude. Explain your working.
Worked solution & mark scheme
This 4-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: “Kinetic energy $E_k$ is identified” …