Q. The kinetic energy and potential energy of a particle executing simple harmonic motion will be equal, when displacement
A) $\frac{a}{2}$
B) $a\sqrt{2}$
C) $\frac{a}{\sqrt{2}}$
D) $\frac{a\sqrt{2}}{3}$
Explanation
(c) Suppose at displacement $y$ from mean position potential energy = kinetic energy
$\Rightarrow \frac{1}{2}m\left( a^{2} - y^{2} \right)\omega^{2} = \frac{1}{2}m\omega^{2}y^{2}$
$\Rightarrow a^{2} = 2y^{2} \Rightarrow y = \frac{a}{\sqrt{2}}$
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker
Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist
Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.