Simple Harmonic Motion 2 Question 3
3. For a particle executing SHM the displacement $x$ is given by $x=A \cos \omega t$. Identify the graph which represents the variation of potential energy (PE) as a function of time $t$ and displacement $x$.
(2003, 2M)
(a) I, III
(b) II, IV
(c) II, III
(d) I, IV
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Answer:
Correct Answer: 3. (a)
Solution:
- Potential energy is minimum (in this case zero) at mean position $(x=0)$ and maximum at extreme positions $(x= \pm A)$. At time $t=0, x=A$. Hence, PE should be maximum. Therefore, graph $I$ is correct. Further in graph III, PE is minimum at $x=0$. Hence, this is also correct .
