In simple harmonic motion, the total mechanical energy is conserved. What forms
Practice Questions
Q1
In simple harmonic motion, the total mechanical energy is conserved. What forms of energy are involved?
Kinetic and Potential Energy
Kinetic and Thermal Energy
Potential and Thermal Energy
Only Kinetic Energy
Questions & Step-by-Step Solutions
In simple harmonic motion, the total mechanical energy is conserved. What forms of energy are involved?
Step 1: Understand that simple harmonic motion (SHM) involves an object moving back and forth around a central position.
Step 2: Recognize that in SHM, energy can change forms but the total amount of energy stays the same.
Step 3: Identify the two main forms of energy in SHM: kinetic energy (energy of motion) and potential energy (stored energy due to position).
Step 4: Know that when the object is at its maximum displacement, potential energy is at its highest and kinetic energy is at its lowest.
Step 5: When the object passes through the central position, kinetic energy is at its highest and potential energy is at its lowest.
Step 6: Conclude that the total mechanical energy in SHM is the sum of kinetic and potential energy, and this total energy remains constant throughout the motion.