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What is the equation of motion for simple harmonic motion?

The equation of motion for simple harmonic motion (SHM) is given by

x=Acos(ωt+ϕ).x = A \cos(\omega t + \phi).

Simple harmonic motion is characterized as a type of periodic motion where the restoring force acting on an object is directly proportional to its displacement from the equilibrium position. In the equation above, xx represents the displacement from equilibrium, AA denotes the amplitude of the motion, ω\omega is the angular frequency, tt is time, and ϕ\phi is the phase angle.

The angular frequency ω\omega is related to the period TT of the motion through the equation

ω=2πT.\omega = \frac{2\pi}{T}.

Here, the period TT is defined as the time required for one complete oscillation. The frequency ff, which indicates how many oscillations occur per unit time, is the reciprocal of the period, expressed as

f=1T.f = \frac{1}{T}.

In addition to displacement, the velocity and acceleration of an object in simple harmonic motion can also be described mathematically. The velocity vv is given by the equation

v=Aωsin(ωt+ϕ),v = -A\omega \sin(\omega t + \phi),

while the acceleration aa is expressed as

a=Aω2cos(ωt+ϕ).a = -A\omega^2 \cos(\omega t + \phi).

These equations illustrate that the velocity reaches its maximum value when the displacement is zero, whereas the acceleration is at its peak when the displacement is at its maximum.

The equation of motion for simple harmonic motion is instrumental in analyzing a broad spectrum of phenomena, ranging from the oscillations of a mass on a spring to the vibrations of atoms within a crystal lattice. A thorough understanding of this equation is fundamental for comprehending the behavior of these various systems.

Answered by: Prof. Isabella Taylor
A-Level Physics Tutor
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