Q. Which one of the following equations of motion represents simple harmonic motion? Where k, k₀, k₁ and a are all positive.
A) acceleration = −k(x + a)
B) acceleration = k(x + a)
C) acceleration = kx
D) acceleration = −k₀x + k₁x²
Explanation
[Solution from source] Put X = x + a; then acceleration = −kX, which is SHM about x = −a with ω² = k. Acceleration = +kx or k(x + a) points away from equilibrium, and the x² term makes the motion non-linear. Answer (1).
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker
Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist
Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.