Multiple choice

The total energy of a particle executing simple harmonic motion is proportional to the

  1. amplitude of the motion

  2. square of the amplitude of the motion

  3. cube of the amplititude of the motion

  4. square of the acceleration of the body
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

In simple harmonic motion, total energy E = 1/2 k A^2 where k is force constant and A is amplitude. The energy is directly proportional to the SQUARE of amplitude, not amplitude itself or its cube. This is because both potential energy (at extremes) and kinetic energy (at mean position) depend on A^2.

Keep practicing — related questions