Chapter 7

OSCILLATIONS
MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS
SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION
1. If the spring of spring constant k is cut into two pieces, then spring constant of each
spring is
(A) k (B) 2k (C) k/2 (D) none of these
2. Distance covered during one vibration of an oscillation body in terms of amplitude of A
is
(A) A (B) 4A (C) A (D) 2A
2
3. The product of time period and frequency is
(A) Zero (B) 1 (C) π (D) 2
4. The S.I. units of spring constant are
(A) m–1 (B) Nm–1 (C) Nm–2 (D) Nm2
5. The distance covered by wave in 1 second is:

(A) Wave number (B) Wavelength (C) Frequency (D) Wave speed
6. The time period of a spring-mass vibratory system is given as
m k 1 k
(A) T=2π (B) T=2π (C) T= (D) none of these
k m 2π m
7. The SI unit of constant k is identical with that of
(A) force (B) surface tension (C) pressure (D) loudness
8. In simple harmonic motion, the restoring force is directly proportional to
(A) Velocity (B) Acceleration (C) Displacement (D) Time period
9. The acceleration of a body performing S.H.M depends upon its:
(A) Mass (B) Time period (C) Amplitude (D) Displacement
10. The relation between frequency and angular frequency is
2 2f 
(A)  = 2f (B)  = (C)  = (D)  =
f  2f
11. The dimensions of Spring Constant are
(A)  MLT  (B)  MLT  (C)  MT  (D)  MLT 
−2 −1 −2

12. For simple harmonic oscillation, acceleration is:

(A) ω2 x (B) 4π2x /T2 (C) 4 π 2f2x (D) all
SHM AND UNIFORM CIRCULAR MOTION
13. In simple harmonic motion the velocity of a particle is maximum at
(A) Extreme position (B) Mean position
(C) In between extreme and mean position (D) none of these
14. Angular frequency is basically a characteristic of
(A) Circular motion (B) Linear motion (C) Vibratory motion (D)Elliptical motion
15. The wave form of a body executing SHM is
(A) Square wave (B) sine wave (C) circular wave (D) pulse
16. A particle is fastened at the end of a string and is whirled in a vertical circle with the other
end of the string being fixed. The motion of the particle is:
(A) periodic (B) oscillatory
(C) simple harmonic (D) angular simple harmonic
PHASE
17. The angle θ = ωt which specifies the displacement as well as direction of motion of the
point executing SHM is known as:
(A) Phase (B) critical angle (C) plane angle (D) solid angle
18. The phase angle θ = ωt of a body performing SHM indicates
(A) Only the direction of amplitude (B) Only the magnitude of displacement
(C) Both magnitude and direction (D) Amplitude & displacement
19. The phase difference between velocity and displacement in SHM is:
 (A) 0 (B) π/2 (C) π/4 (D) π
20. Given equation of SHM is x = 10 sin (20 t + 0.5). The initial phase is:
(A) 0.5 radian (B) 20 radian (C) 10 radian (D) none of these
A HORIZONTAL MASS SPRING SYSTEM
21. If F = 0.08N and x = 4 m then K =
−1 −1
(A) 6 N m-1 (B) 0.03Nm (C) 8 N m-1 (D) 0.02Nm
22. All other factors remaining unchanged, the radius of the reference circle is doubled.
What shall be the effect on the maximum velocity of corresponding SHM?
(A) no effect (B) shall be doubled
(C) shall be halved (D) none of these
23. Two springs of spring constants K1 and K2 are joined in series the effective spring
constant of combination is given by:
𝐾1 +𝐾2 K1K2
(A) √𝐾1 𝐾2 (B) 2
(C) 𝐾1 + 𝐾2 (D) K + K
1 2
24. Two springs have force constants in the ratio 4 : 9. Their time periods are in the ratio
of:
(A) 3 : 2 (B) 2 : 3 (C) 1 : 3 (D) 3 : 1
25. If acceleration due to gravity is halved, then the frequency f of oscillation of a spring
becomes:
f
(A) 2f (B) 4f (C) 2 (D) no effect
𝝅
26. If the position of oscillating object is given by the equation 𝑿 = √𝟐 𝐜𝐨𝐬 ( 𝟖 𝒕) then its
displacement after 2 second is:
(A) 3 m (B) 2 m (C) 1 m (D) 0 m
SIMPLE PENDULUM
27. The time period of simple pendulum
1 𝑙 𝑔 𝑙 𝑙2
(A) 𝑇 = 2𝜋 √𝑔 (B) 𝑇 = 2𝜋√ 𝑙 (C) 𝑇 = 2𝜋√𝑔 (D) 𝑇 = 2𝜋√ 𝑔
28. The time period of a second pendulum is:
(A) 4 seconds (B) 3 seconds (C) 2 seconds (D) 6 seconds
29. If the time period of simple pendulum is 2 seconds, its frequency will be
(A) 1.0 Hz (B) 0.5 Hz (C) 1.5 Hz (D) 2Hz
30. The length of second pendulum is:
(A) 100 cm (B) 99 cm (C) 99.2 cm (D) 98 cm
31. Natural frequency of simple pendulum depends upon:
(A) its mass (B) its length
(C) square of its length (D) square root of its length
32. If amplitude of a simple pendulum is increased by 4 times the time period will be:
(A) Four times (B) Half (C) Same (D) Two times
33. If mass of pendulum becomes four time, then its time period will be
(A) Double (B) Half (C) Four time (D) Remains same
34. The time period of simple pendulum depends upon
(A) Length of pendulum (B) amplitude of pendulum
(C) size of the bob (D) mass of pendulum
35. In case of Oscillating Pendulum, its acceleration “a” is
(A) a   (B) a  time period
(C) a  length of pendulum (D) a  mass of bob
36. If a pendulum is suspended in a lift moving down with acceleration ‘a’ the time period
of pendulum is:
√𝑙
(A) T=2 π√𝑙/𝑔 (B) T=2 π√𝑙/𝑎 (C) T=2 π√𝑙/√𝑔+a (D) T=2 π√𝑔−𝑎
37. A graph plotted between length and time period of pendulum is a:
(A) straight line (B) parabola (C) ellipse (D) circle
38. The time period of simple pendulum is independent of:
(A) length (B) acceleration (C) mass (D) height
39. Units used for factor may be:
g
(A) meter (B) second (C) kilogram (D) radian
ENERGY CONSERVATION
40. When the spring constant of mass spring system executing SHM becomes Double its total
energy becomes:
(A) double (B) one half (C) four times (D) six times
41. The process in which energy is dissipated in oscillating system is called
(A) Resonance (B) Forced oscillation (C) Damping (D) None
42. At mean position during SHM
(A) PE is maximum and K.E minimum (B) P.E is minimum and K.E is maximum
(C) Both P.E is maximum (D) Both K.E and P.E are minimum
43. When the amplitude of SHM becomes double its total energy becomes:
(A) double (B) one half (C) four times (D) six times
44. The total energy of mass spring system is independent of:
(A) Mass of body (B) amplitude
(C) spring constant (D) nature of material of spring
45. A particle executes SHM with amplitude a. The displacement at which the kinetic
energy and potential energy of the particle will be equal is:
(A) √2/3 (B) a/2 (C) a/√2 (D) a√2
46. A body of mass ‘m’ hanging vertically by an ideal spring of spring constant K. If the
mass is made to oscillate vertically, its total energy is:
(A) maximum at extreme position (B) maximum at mean position
(C) minimum at mean position (D) same at all positions
47. Two springs have force constants k1 and k2. These are extended through the same
E1
distance x. If their elastic energies are E1 and E2, then is equal to:
E2
2 2
(A) K1 : K2 (B) K2 : K1 (C) K1 : K2 (D) K1 : K2
48. The maximum energy of a body executing SHM of amplitude 2 cm is E. If the same
body execute SHM of amplitude 3 cm but same period, the maximum energy will be:
3 2 9
(A) E (B) 2 E (C) 3 E (D) 4 E
49. The total energy of a particle executing SHM at any displacement x is given by:
𝑘 1
(A) 𝑘𝑥 (B) 𝑥 (C) 𝑘𝑥𝑜 (D) 2 𝑘𝑥𝑜2
50. A body is executing SHM. What fraction of its total energy will be kinetic energy when its
displacement from the mean position is half of its displacement
1 3 3 1
(A) (B) (C) (D)
2 2 4 4
51. For what displacement the P. E becomes ¼ of its maximum value?
(A) x = xo (B) x = xo/2 (C) x = xo/4 (D) x = xo2/2
52. At resonance, the transfer of energy is:
(A) zero (B) maximum (C) minimum (D) very slow
FREE AND FORCED OSCILLATION & RESONANCE
53. Tuning of a radio is the best example of
(A) Mechanical resonance (B) electrical resonance
(C) Damping (D) phase modulation
54. The cooking and heating of food by microwave oven is an example of
(A) SHM (B) resonance (C) damped oscillation (D) none of these
55. The frequency of waves produced in microwave oven is
(A) 1435 Hz (B) 2450 MHz (C) 1860 MHz (D) 2850 Hz
56. Tuning of radio is the best example of:
(A) Mechanical resonance (B) Electrical resonance
(C) Magnetic resonance (D) Musical resonance
57. The wavelength of waves produced by microwave oven is:
 (A) 0.12 cm (B) 1 cm (C) 6cm (D) 12 cm
DAMPED OSCILLATIONS
SHARPNESS OF RESONANCE
58. The oscillation in which amplitude decreases steadily with the time is called:
(A) Natural oscillation (B) damped oscillation (C) free oscillation (D) forced oscillation
59. The amplitude of a damped oscillator becomes half in one minute. The amplitude after
1
three minutes will be times the original where x is:
x
(A) 2  3 (B) 23 (C) 22 (D) 32
60. At resonance, the amplitude of vibration will be large, when the damping is
(A) Small (B) unchanged (C) large (D) none of these

ANSWER KEY
1 B 16 D 31 D 46 D
2 B 17 A 32 C 47 A
3 B 18 B 33 D 48 D
4 B 19 B 34 A 49 D
5 B 20 A 35 A 50 C
6 A 21 D 36 D 51 B
7 C 22 A 37 B 52 B
8 C 23 D 38 C 53 B
9 D 24 A 39 B 54 B
10 A 25 D 40 A 55 B
11 B 26 C 41 C 56 B
12 D 27 C 42 B 57 D
13 B 28 C 43 C 58 B
14 A 29 B 44 A 59 B
15 B 30 A 45 C 60 A

Short Questions from Topics

Q.1 State Hooke’s law. Write its mathematical form.
Ans According to Hooke’s Law, the restoring force is directly proportional to the displacement, within
elastic limit.
Mathematically,
⃗F ∝ x⃗
⃗F = kx⃗
where k is constant of proportionality, known as spring constant.
Q.2 If heavy and light masses of same size are set to vibration which of them will stop first?
Ans As we know that the damping force on lighter body will be larger than heavier one, so lighter
body will stop first.
Q.3 What is the difference between displacement and amplitude?
Ans Displacement: The displacement of a body at any instant from the mean position is called
instantaneous displacement or simply displacement. It is denoted by 𝑥.
Amplitude: The maximum displacement of the body on either side from the mean
position is called amplitude. It is denoted by 𝑥0 .
Q.4 What is meant by phase and initial phase?
Ans: The angle(θ = ωt) which gives the displacement as well as the direction of the motion of point
executing simple harmonic motion is known as phase.
Phase θ = ωt + ϕ
at time 𝑡 = 0, θ = ϕ , ϕ is called the initial phase.
Q.5 State the law of conservation of energy.
Ans The total energy of the vibrating mass spring system remains constant at any instant during
oscillation. This is called law of conservation of energy in SHM.
At any position, the total energy is sum of P.E. and K.E. i.e.,
 Etotal = P. E + K. E
Q.6 Differentiate between free and forced oscillations.
Ans Free Oscillations: A body is said to execute free oscillations if it oscillates with its natural
frequency without the interference of an external force.
Example: motion of pendulum in vacuum.
Forced Oscillations: A body is said to be executing forced oscillations if it oscillates with the
interference of an external force. Example: motion of pendulum in air.
Q.7 What is driven harmonic oscillator?
Ans The physical system undergoing forced vibrations is known as driven harmonic oscillator.
For example: 1. vibration of factory floor caused by running of heavy machinery.
2. loud music produced by sounding wooden boards of string instruments.
Q.8 Write an advantage and a disadvantage of resonance.
Ans Advantage: The application of resonance phenomenon in tuning a radio. When we turn the
knob of the radio, it changes the natural frequency of electrical circuit of receiver until it
becomes equal to the frequency of transmitter. The resonance is produced, and energy
absorption is maximum. This is how the radio is tuned.
Disadvantage: On a long span bridge, the soldiers crossing the bridge are ordered to break
their steps. If the frequency of their steps coincides with the natural frequency of the bridge,
then the bridge will collapse due to resonance.
Q.9 Describe the condition under which a vibrating body resonates with other body.
Ans When the frequency of both vibrating bodies is matched, then the vibrating body resonates
with the other body.
Q.10 Define sharpness of resonance.
Ans Sharpness of the resonance depends upon damping. Smaller the damping, greater will be the
amplitude and sharper will be the resonance.
Q.11 Write three uses of simple pendulum.
Ans Following are the uses of simple pendulum:
1. Simple pendulum is used in seismometer to predict earthquakes.
2. Pendulum is also used in a metronome, which helps to maintain the speed of music.
3. It is used to measure the value of g.
Q.12 Define frequency and time-period and relation between them.
Ans Time period: The time required by a vibrating body to complete one vibration is called time
period.
Frequency: The number of vibrations completed in one second is called frequency.
Relation between frequency and time-period is
1
𝑓 = 𝑇
Q.13 What is a seconds pendulum? Find its length and frequency.
Ans The pendulum whose time period is 2 seconds is called a seconds pendulum.
as, T = 2 s,
1 1
Frequency 𝑓 = 𝑇 , 𝑓 = 2 , 𝑓 = 0.5 𝐻𝑧.
𝑙 𝑙 gT2
Length T = 2π√g ⟹ T 2 = 4π2 [g] ⟹ 𝑙 = 4π2
9.8×(2)2
𝑙=
4×(3.14)2
𝑙 = 0.992 𝑚 = 99.2 cm
Q.14 Define damping and resonance.
Ans Damping: Damping is the process in which energy is dissipated from the oscillating
system.
Resonance: Resonance occurs when the frequency of the applied periodic force is equal to one
of the natural frequencies of the vibration of the driven harmonic oscillator.
Q.15 Write and explain electrical application of resonance.
Ans Tuning a radio is an electrical application of the resonance. When we turn the knob of the radio,
to tune a station, we are changing the natural frequency of electrical circuit of receiver, to make
 it equal to the transmission frequency of the radio station. When the two frequencies match
energy absorption is maximum, and this is the only station we hear.
Q.16 Differentiate between frequency and angular frequency.
Ans Frequency: The number of vibrations completed by a body in one second is called
frequency.
1
𝑓=𝑇
Its unit is Hz or s-1.
Angular Frequency: The frequency of a periodic circular motion is equal to 2π times the
number of cycles per second.
ω = 2πf
Its units are rad s-1 or rev min-1.
Q.17 Define the term Oscillations.
Ans The to-and-fro motion of a body about its mean position is called oscillation or vibration.
Example: When a mass attached to a spring is pulled and released, it starts oscillating.
Q.18 Briefly explain restoring force.
Ans The force which brings the system back to its mean position is called restoring force.
For example, in case of mass spring system, the restoring force is given as
⃗ r = −kx⃗
F
Q.19 Describe the function of microwave oven.
Ans The function of microwave oven is heating and cooking of food by resonance. The waves
produced in this type of oven have a wavelength of 12 cm at a frequency of 2450 MHz. At this
frequency, the waves are absorbed due resonance by water and fat molecules in the food,
heating them up and so cooking the food.
Q.20 How does mass change the time period of mass spring system?
Ans As we know that the time period of the mass spring system is,
m
T = 2π √ k
As mass is directly proportional to the time period so if we increase the mass, time period will
also increase.
Q.21 What happens to the time period of pendulum if its length is halved?
Ans Since
𝑙
T = 2π√g
𝑙
if length is halved 𝑙’ = 2
′ 𝑙′
T = 2π√ g
𝑙
T ′ = 2π√2g
1 𝑙
T′ = (2π√ )
√2 g
′ T
T =
√2
Hence, time period reduces to1/√2 times.
Q.22 Will the period of the vibrating spring increase, decrease or remain constant by addition of
more weight?
m
Ans We know T = 2π√
k
w = mg
w
m = g
w
T = 2π√gk
So, T α √w
Therefore, when weight is added, the time period of the vibrating spring will also increase.
Q.23 What happens to the acceleration of a vibrating body when it passes through the mean
position?
Ans Since acceleration depends upon the displacement from the mean position a⃗ ∝ − x⃗
therefore, at mean position when the displacement is zero the acceleration is also zero.

Exercise Short Questions

Q.1 Name two characteristics of simple harmonic motion.
Ans In Simple Harmonic Motion
1. Acceleration is directly proportional to the displacement from the mean position.
2. Acceleration is directed towards its mean position.
i.e., a∝-x
Q.2 Does frequency depends on amplitude for harmonic oscillators?
Ans No. Frequency of harmonic oscillators does not depend on amplitude. As frequency is given
by the following formula:
1 g 1 k
f = √𝑙 or f = √
2π 2π m
The above formula clearly shows that frequency of harmonic oscillators is independent of
amplitude.
Q.3 Can we realize an ideal simple pendulum?
Ans No. We cannot realize an ideal simple pendulum. Because for an ideal simple pendulum
following conditions must be met:
1. The string must be massless and inextensible.
2. The bob should be a point mass.
3. The support must be frictionless.
4. The length of string should not change with temperature.
5. Acceleration due to gravity should not change due to change of height.
6. There should be no air friction.
As all these requirements cannot be met perfectly, so we cannot make an ideal simple
pendulum.
Q.4 What is the total distance travelled by an object moving with S.H.M. in a time equal to its
period, if its amplitude is A?
Ans Since time period is equal to time for one complete vibration of the Simple Harmonic
Oscillator. One vibration has four equal amplitudes. Therefore, the total distance travelled in
one vibration is equal to 4A. i.e., 𝑆 = 𝐴 + 𝐴 + 𝐴 + 𝐴 = 4𝐴
Q.5 What happens to the period of a simple pendulum if its length is doubled? What
happens if the suspended mass is doubled?
Ans (i) The time period of simple pendulum is given by the formula,
𝑙
T = 2π√g
When 𝑙 ′ = 2l
l′ 2𝑙
T ′ = 2π√ g = 2π√ g
𝑙
T ′ = √2 (2π√g )
T ′ = √2 T
So, when length is doubled, the time period increases by √2 or 1.41 times.
(ii) Since time period is independent of mass, therefore, there will be no change in the
time period when suspended mass is doubled.
Q.6 Does the acceleration of a simple harmonic oscillator remain constant during its motion? Is
the acceleration ever zero? Explain.
Ans No. Acceleration of an oscillator does not remain constant. It depends upon displacement from
mean position i.e., x
a⃗ = − ω2 x⃗
The acceleration is zero at mean position (x = 0)
 amin = − ω2 (0) =0
and it becomes maximum at extreme position (x = xo )
amax = − ω2 xo
So, acceleration of S.H.O., varies from maximum to minimum, it does not remain constant
during motion.
Q.7 What is meant by phase angle? Does it define angle between maximum displacement and
the driving force?
Ans Phase angle (or phase):
The angle (θ = ωt) which specifies the displacement as well as the direction of motion of
the point executing S.H.M. is called phase. It indicates the state and direction of motion of a
vibrating particle.
No, it does not define angle between maximum displacement and the driving force.
Q.8 Under what conditions does the addition of two simple harmonic motions produce a
resultant, which is also simple harmonic?
Ans The conditions are as under:
i. The two SHMs must have same nature.
ii. The two SHMs must be parallel.
iii. The two SHMs must have same phase difference.
Q.9 Show that in S.H.M. the acceleration is zero when the velocity is greatest, and the
velocity is zero when the acceleration is greatest.
Ans For S.H.M. we have:
v = ω √xo 2 − x 2 & a = − ω2 x
At mean position x = 0
then v = ω xo and a = 0
i.e., velocity is maximum and acceleration is zero.
At extreme position 𝐱 = 𝐱 𝐨
then v=0 and a = −ω xo
i.e., velocity is zero when acceleration is maximum.
Q.10 In relation to SHM, explain the equations
(𝐢) 𝐲 = 𝐀 𝐬𝐢𝐧 (ω 𝐭 + ϕ )
(𝐢𝐢) 𝐚 = − ω𝟐 x
Ans (i) 𝒚 = 𝑨 𝒔𝒊𝒏 (𝝎 𝒕 + 𝝓)
Here, y = Instantaneous displacement,
A= Amplitude, ω t = angle subtended in time t, 𝜙= initial phase
This equation shows that displacement of SHM is a function of amplitude and phase angle
depending upon time.
(ii) 𝒂 = − 𝝎𝟐 𝒙
Here a = acceleration of a particle executing S.H.M, ω = constant angular frequency,
x = instantaneous displacement from the mean position.
This equation shows that acceleration is directly proportional to displacement and is
directed towards the mean position.
Q.11 Explain the relation between total energy, potential energy and kinetic energy for a body
oscillating with SHM.
Ans For a body executing SHM,
At mean position, 𝐱 = 𝟎
1 1
P. E = 2 kx 2 = 2 k(0)2 = 0 (minimum)
1 1 x2 1
K. E = kxo 2 + kxo 2 (1 – ) = kxo 2 (maximum)
2 2 xo2 2
At extreme position, 𝐱 = 𝐱 𝐨
1 1
P. E = 2 kx 2 = 2 kxo 2 (maximum)
1 1 x2
K. E = 2 kxo 2 + 2 kxo 2 (1 – )=0 (minimum)
xo2
𝐀𝐭 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧, 𝐱 = 𝐱
 1 1 x2 1
Total Energy = P. E + K. E = 2 kx 2 + 2 kxo 2 (1 – xo2) = 2 kxo 2
It is concluded that total energy of an oscillator always remains constant.
Q.12 Describe some common phenomena in which resonance plays an important role.
Ans Important role of resonance:
Swing: It is a good example of mechanical resonance. If series of regular pushes are given to
the swing, resonance will take place and amplitude of swing will increase enormously.
Bridge structure: The column of soldiers, while marching on a bridge of long span are
advised to break their steps. Their rhythmic march might produce resonance in the
structure of bridge, and it may collapse.
Tuning of radio: It is the best example of electrical resonance. To tune a radio station, we
turn the knob of a radio to change the natural frequency of the electric circuit of the receiver so
that it becomes equal to the transmission frequency of a particular station. When two
frequencies become equal resonance takes place and that station is selected on the radio/TV.
Microwave oven: The microwave oven is used to heat and cook food very efficiently and
evenly. The waves produced by microwave oven have a wavelength of 12 cm at frequency of
2450 MHz. These waves are absorbed due to resonance by water and fat molecules in the food
which heat and cook the food.
Q.13 If a mass spring system is hung vertically and set into oscillations, why does the motion
eventually stop?
Ans Damping force acts on oscillating mass spring system due to air resistance. The energy of mass
spring system is dissipated into heat because of frictional forces, and it stops eventually.

Long Questions
Q. 1 Discuss the motion of projection of particle moving along a circular path with constant
speed. Show that this motion is SHM. Derive the following relations.
i. Instantaneous displacement, ii. Instantaneous velocity, iii. Acceleration in terms of 𝝎
Ans. Consider a mass m suspended from one end of a spring. It vibrates with time T, frequency f and
amplitude x0. The motion of the mass is shown by a pointer P1 on the line BC with A as mean
position and B and C are the extreme positions as shown in figure (a). Let at time t = 0, the
pointer is at position A and starts moving upwards. It is at positions B, A, C and back to A at
instants T/4, T/2, 3T/4, and T respectively. In this way it completes one vibration or cycle
with amplitude x0 = AB = AC.
Now consider a point P moving in a circle of radius x0 with uniform angular frequency ω as
shown in figure (b). The radius of the circle is equal to amplitude of the pointer’s motion.

B D
P
N
X X0
x X X0 X

M 
P1 A O O1 0  3 2 5 3
2 2 2

C E
(a) (b) (C)
Consider the motion of the point N, the projection of P on the diameter DE drawn parallel to
the line of vibration of the pointer P1. As point P revolves in a circle of radius x0 with uniform
angular frequency ω, N vibrates on the diameter DE about the mean position O with time period
T. At time t=0 let the position of P is at O1. The position of N at the instants, 0, T/4, T/2, 3T/4
and T will be at the points O, D, O, E and O respectively. This shows that motions of the point
N and the pointer P1 are same.
(i) Displacement of Projection N:
Considering figure (b), from right angle triangle ONP
perpendicular ON
sin θ = hypotenuse = OP
 x
= x
0
x = xo sinθ
or 𝐱 = 𝐱 𝐨 𝐬𝐢𝐧𝛚𝐭------------- (1) (∵ θ = ωt)
This is displacement of point N at any time t.
(ii) Instantaneous Velocity of Projection N:
When the point P is moving on the circle its linear velocity is along the tangent and is given by
vp = rω
vp = xo ω ------------------(2) (∵ r = xo )
The motion of projection N along the diameter DE is due to motion of point P on the circle.
The velocity of projection N is actually the vertical component of the velocity of point P.
Therefore.
v = velocity of the projection N at any instant
v = vp sin(90 − θ)
v = vp cosθ
D VP
v = xo ω cosθ -------------- (3) (∵ vp = xo ω)
V90- P
From ONP N

Base XO
cosθ =  Hyp 
  X
=t
NP O1
cosθ =  x  --------------(4) O
 o
Using Pythagoras theorem
2
In ∆ONP (NP)2 + x2 = x0
2 E
(NP)2 = x0 − x2

NP = √x2 − x2
0
Putting this value in equation (4) we have

√x
2
− x2
0
cos = xo
-------------- (5)
Substituting value of cos from eq. (5) in eq. (3) we get

√x
2
− x2
0
v = xo ω xo

2
𝐯 = 𝛚√𝐱0 − 𝐱 𝟐 --------- (6)

This is the instantaneous velocity of projection N.

Maximum Velocity:
As velocity is maximum at the mean position, hence v = v0 at x= 0
2 2
vmax = ω √x0 − 02 = ω √x0

vo = xo ω
Minimum Velocity:
As velocity is minimum at the extreme position, hence v = 0 at x = xo
2 2
vmin = ω √x0 − x0 = ω ( 0 )
 vmin = 0
(iii) Acceleration of the Projection N:
When the point P is moving on the circle, it has centripetal acceleration which is given by
vp2
ap = but vp = xo ω D
xo
(xoω)2 N
P
= 
xo XO aP
= xo ω2− − − − (7) X
 = t
The direction of this acceleration is along PO. The acceleration O O1
of the projection N will be the vertical component of
acceleration ap. Therefore,
a = ap sinθ − − − − (8)
ON x E
In ∆ONP sinθ = OP = x − − − − − (9)
o
Putting the values of ap and sinθ from eqs. (7) and (9) in eq. (8) we have
x
a = xo ω2 x 
 0
a = ω x2

As the direction of acceleration a and displacement x are opposite, hence

a = - ω2 x
Since ω = constant
a = − (constant) x
𝐚  − 𝐱
Conclusion:
Since acceleration of the projection N is directly proportional to displacement and it is directed
towards the mean position, hence its motion is SHM.
Q. 2 Discuss the motion of horizontal mass spring system. Show that this motion is SHM. Derive
formula for time period, displacement and velocity.
Ans Consider a mass m which is attached to one end of an elastic spring. The other end of the spring
is fixed with a rigid support. When a force F is applied on the mass towards right, an extension
x is produced in the spring. When mass is released then it starts moving freely on a frictionless
horizontal surface as shown in figure. The restoring force acting on the mass is producing
acceleration in it which can be calculated as follows:
1. Acceleration at any instant ‘a’:
Hooke’s law F𝑟 = − k x − − − −(1)
2nd law F = ma − − − −(2)
Comparing eq. (1) and (2) we get
ma = − k x
-k k
a = m x (∵ m = Constant)
a = − (Constant)x
𝐚  − 𝐱
This shows that horizontal mass spring system performs Simple Harmonic Motion.
2. Angular Frequency:
𝑘
a = (−) 𝑚 x − − − − − (3) m (a)
Acceleration of projection N is given by the relation,
a = − ω2 x − − − − − (4) Fr
Comparing eq. (3) and (4) we get
k m (b)
− ω2 x = − m x
X
k Fr
ω2 = m
m (c)
k
𝛚= m − − − − − (5) A’ O A
3. Time Period:
Time taken by the mass attached to a spring to complete one vibration is called its time-period.
We know that
2π
T = ω
Putting the value of ω from eq. (5) the above equation becomes
2π
T =
k
m
m
𝐓 = 𝟐𝛑 k − − − − − (6)
This is the relation for time-period of horizontal mass spring system.
4. Frequency f:
The number of vibrations completed by mass attached to a spring in one second is called
frequency.
1
f =T
Putting the value of T from eq. (6) we get
1
f =
m
2π k
1 k
𝐟 = 2π m − − − − − (7)
This is the relation for frequency of horizontal mass spring system.
5. Instantaneous Displacement x:
Instantaneous displacement of projection N is given by
x = x0 sin t
Putting the value of ω from eq. (5) we get
k
𝐱 = 𝐱 𝐨 𝐬𝐢𝐧 ( (8)
m 𝐭) − − −
This is the relation for instantaneous displacement produced in horizontal mass spring system.
6. Instantaneous Velocity:
Relation for instantaneous velocity of projection N is given by
2
v =  √x0 − x2

Putting the values of ω and x from eq. (5) and (8) in above equation.
k
v = √m √xo 2 − x 2
k x2
v = √m √xo 2 (1 − x 2 )
o

𝐤 𝐱𝟐
𝐯 = 𝐱 𝐨 √𝐦 √(𝟏 − 𝐱 𝟐 ) − − − − − (9)
𝐨
7. Maximum Velocity:
Velocity is maximum at mean position i.e., x = 0
k
v = xo √m √(1 − 0)
𝐤
𝐯𝐨 = 𝐱 𝐨 √𝐦
Putting this value in equation (9) we get,
 x2
v = vo √1 − x 2
o
Q.3 What is a simple pendulum? Show that its motion is SHM. Derive an expression for its
time period. Also find its frequency.
Ans. Simple Pendulum:
A small heavy mass (bob) attached to one end of a light inextensible string whose other end is
suspended from a rigid frictionless support is called a simple pendulum.
Explanation:
When the bob of simple pendulum is displaced from its mean position through a small angle θ
to the position B and released, it starts vibrating about the mean position over the same path.
At extreme position B weight mg is resolved into its rectangular components as shown in
figure.
i) mg cosθ is horizontal component parallel to string. C
ii) mg sinθ is vertical component perpendicular to string.
As tension T in the string is balanced by the horizontal component  l
of weight i.e. T= mg cosθ, therefore restoring force is provided by
the vertical component of weight. l
T
Fr = - mg sinθ − − − − − (1) X
B
This restoring force produces acceleration in simple A mg cos
pendulum, So: O S
m mg sin 
F = ma − − − − − − − − − (2)
Comparing eq. (1) and (2) we get
mg
ma = − mg sinθ
a = − g sinθ − − − − − − − − (3)
When θ is kept very small, then sinθ ≈ θ, so above equation becomes,
a = − g θ − − − − − − − −(4)
Also, if θ is very small, then Arc AB = OB = x,
As S= rθ
S Arc AB
θ = r = l
x
θ = l
Putting this value in eq. (4)
x
a=−g l
g
a = − ( l ) x − − − − − (5)
g
As = constant, hence
l
a = − (constant) x
𝐚 − 𝐱
Conclusion:
This shows that acceleration ‘a’ of the bob is directly proportional to the displacement x and
the negative sign shows that the direction of the acceleration is towards the mean position.
Hence motion of simple pendulum is simple harmonic motion.
Time Period T:
Time taken by simple pendulum to complete one vibration is called its time period.
We know that acceleration of projection N is given by
a = - ω2 x ---------------- (6)
Comparing eq. (5) and (6) we get
g
- ω2 x = - 𝑙 x
g
ω2 = 𝑙
g
ω = √𝑙
2π 2𝜋
As T = =
ω g
√𝑙
 𝐥
𝐓 = 𝟐𝛑 √ 𝐠 − − − − − (7)
Dependence:
i) Time period depends on the length ℓ and value of g.
ii) Time period does not depend on the mass of the bob and amplitude xo.
Frequency:
The number of vibrations completed by simple pendulum in one second is called its frequency.
1 1
f= T = l
2π √
g

1 𝐠
𝐟= 2 π √ 𝐥 − − − − − − (8)
Q. 4 Discuss that energy remains conserved during SHM.
Ans Consider a mass spring system. When the mass m is pulled slowly, the spring is stretched by
xo against the restoring force F. As spring is stretched slowly, so acceleration is zero. According
to Hooks law F = kx
When x = 0 F = k (0) = 0
When x = xo F = k xo
The average force for stretching the spring is given by
0 + k x0 1
Fav = = 2 k xo
2
The work done in displacing the mass m through xo is given by
W = Fav d
1
W = 2 k xo (xo)
1 2
W = 2 k x0
At Extreme Position:
Elastic P.E:
The above work done is stored in spring as its elastic potential energy and is given by
1 2
P.E. = 2 k x0
As the mass is at the extreme position i.e. x = x0, P.E. becomes maximum
1 2
(P.E)max = 2 k x0 --------- (1)
Kinetic Energy:
As velocity is minimum (v = 0) at extreme position, hence K.E is also minimum (zero) at
extreme position.
1
(K.E)min = 2 mv2 energy
(K.E)min = 0 --------- (2) total energy
Total Energy:
Etotal = K.E. + P.E.
1 2 K.E.
Etotal = 0 + 2 k x0
P.E.
1 2
Etotal = 2 k x0 ---- (3)
At Any Instant:
-Xo O +Xo
Instantaneous P.E:
P.E. at any instant is given by relation
1
P.E. = 2 k x2----- (4)
Instantaneous K.E.
1 2
K.E. = 2 mv
 k x2
v = x0 1 - 2
m
x0
2 k  x2 
v2 = x0 m 1 - 2
 
 x0
 
Putting this value of v2 in above equation we get

1 2 k  x2 
K.E = m (x0 m 1 - 2 )
2   
x0
 
1 2  x2 
2 k x0 1 - 2 -------- (5)
K.E. =
 x0
 
Total Energy:
For any displacement x, the energy is partly P.E. and partly K.E. Hence
Etotal = K.E. + P.E.
Putting the values of K.E. and P.E. from equations (4) and (5) in above equation
1 2 x2  1
Etotal = 2 k x0 1 - 2 + 2 k x2
 x0
 
1 2 1 2 x2 1
Etotal = k x − k x ( ) + 2
2 0 2 0 2 2kx
x0
1 2 1 1
2 k x0 − 2 k x + 2 k x
2 2
Etotal =
1 2
Etotal = k x0 -------------- (6)
2
At Mean Position:
Maximum K.E:
As velocity is maximum at mean position, hence K.E. is also maximum at mean position.
At mean position x=0.
1 2  0 1 2
(K.E)max = 2 k x0 1 - 2 = 2 k x0 (1 – 0)
 x0
 
1 2
(K.E)max = 2 k x0 -------------(7)
Minimum P.E:
P.E is minimum (zero) at mean position i.e. x = 0
1
(P.E) = 2 k (x)2
(P.E)min = 0 ------------------ (8)
Total Energy:
Etotal = K.E. + P.E.
1 2
Etotal = 2 k x0 + 0
1 2
Etotal = 2 k x0 ------------ (9)
Conclusion:
Equations 3,6 and 9 shows that energy oscillates between maximum and minimum, but the
total amount of energy remains constant. It is confirmation of the Law of Conservation of
Energy.
 NUMERICAL PROBLEMS
7.1 A 100.0 g body hung on a spring elongates the spring by 4.0 cm. When a certain object
is hung on the spring and set vibrating, its period is 0.568 s. What is the mass of the
object pulling the spring?
Given data:
100
m1 = 100 g = 1000 = 0.1 kg
4
x = 4.0 cm = 100 m = 0.04 m
T = 0.568 s
To find:
m2 = ? F=W
Solution:
F = kx
F w m1 g
k = x = =
x x
0.1×9.8
k = 0.04
k = 24.5 N m−1
m2
T = 2√ k
2 2 m2
T = 4 k
kT2
m2 = 42
24.5 ×(0.568)2
m2 = 4 ×(3.14)2
𝐦𝟐 = 𝟎. 𝟐 𝐤𝐠 Ans
7.2 A load of 15.0 g elongates a spring by 2.00 cm. If body of mass 294 g is attached to the
spring and is set into vibration with an amplitude of 10.0 cm, what will be its (i) period
(ii) spring constant (iii) maximum speed of its vibration.
Given data:
15
m1 = 15.0 g = 1000 kg = 0.015 kg
2
x = 2.0 cm = 100 m = 0.02 m
294
m2 = 294 g = kg = 0.294 kg
1000
10
x0 = 10.0 cm = m = 0.1 m
100
To find:
(i) T =?
(ii) k =?
(iii) v0 = ?
Solution:
(i) F = kx
F w m1 g
k = x = =
x x
0.015×9.8
k = 0.02
𝐤 = 𝟕. 𝟑𝟓 𝐍 𝐦−𝟏 Ans.
m2
(ii) T = 2√ k
0.294
T = 2  3.14 √ 7.35
𝐓 = 𝟏. 𝟐𝟔 𝐬 Ans.
k
(iii) v0 = x0 √m
2

7.35
v0 = 0.1 √0.294
 v0 = 0.49 m s−1 = 0.49 × 100 cm s−1
𝐯𝟎 = 𝟒𝟗 𝐜𝐦 𝐬 −𝟏 Ans.
7.3 An 8.0 kg body executes SHM with amplitude 30 cm. The restoring force is 60 N when
the displacement is 30 cm. Find (i) Period (ii) Acceleration, speed, kinetic energy, and
potential energy when the displacement is 12 cm.
Given data:
m = 8.0 kg
30
x0 = 30 cm = 100 m = 0.30 m
F = 60 N
12
x = 12 cm = 100 m = 0.12 m
To find:
(i) T =?
(ii) a =?
v =?
K. E. = ?
P. E. =?
Solution:
(i) For time period
F = kx
F 60
k = = = 200 N m−1
x 0.3
m
T = 2√ k
8
T = 2  3.14 √ = 1.256 s
200
𝐓 = 1.3 s Ans.
(ii) For acceleration,
k
a = mx
200
a = − 8  0.12
𝐚 = −𝟑 𝐦 𝐬 −𝟐 Ans.
-ve sign shows that acceleration is directed towards mean position.
for speed,
v = √x0 2 − x 2
2π
v = T √x0 2 − x 2
2 ×3.14
v = 1.3 √(0.3)2 − (0.12)2
𝐯 = 𝟏. 𝟒 𝐦 𝐬−𝟏 Ans.
For Kinetic energy
1 x2
K. E. = kx0 2 (1 − x 2)
2 0
1 0.122
K. E. = 2 (200)(0.3)2
(1 − 0.32 )
𝐊. 𝐄. = 𝟕. 𝟔 𝐉 Ans.
For Potential energy,
1
P. E. = 2 k x 2
1
P. E. = 2  200 (0.12)2
𝐏. 𝐄. = 𝟏. 𝟒𝟒 𝐉 Ans.
7.4 A block of mass 4.0 kg is dropped from a height of 0.80 m on to a spring of spring
constant k=1960 N m-1. Find the maximum distance through which the spring will be
compressed.
Given data:
 m = 4.0 kg
h = 0.80 m
k = 1960 N m−1
To find:
x0 = ?
Solution:
Gravitational P. E. = Elastic P. E.
1
mgh = 2 kx0 2
2mgh PEg = mgh
x0 2 = k
h
2mgh
x0 = √ k
xo=?
2×4×9.8×0.80
x0 = √ 2
PEc = ½KxO
1960
x0 = 0.1788 m
𝐱 𝟎 = 𝟎. 𝟏𝟖 𝐦 Ans.
7.5 A simple pendulum is 50.0 cm long. What will be its frequency of vibration at a place
where g = 9.8 ms-2?
Given data:
50
l = 50 cm = 100 m = 0.50 m
g = 9.8 m s−2
To find:
f =?
Solution:
𝑙
T = 2π√g
1
T= f
1 g
f = √𝑙
2π
1 9.8
f = √
2×3.14 0.50
𝐟 = 𝟎. 𝟕𝟎 𝐇𝐳 Ans.
7.6 A block of mass 1.6 kg is attached to a spring with spring constant 1000 N m -1, as shown
in Fig.7.14. The spring is compressed through a distance of 2.0 cm and the block is
released from rest. Calculate the velocity of the block as it passes through the
equilibrium position, x = 0, if the surface is frictionless.
Given data:
m = 1.6 kg
k = 1000 N m−1
2
x0 = 2 cm = 100 m = 0.02 m (i)
To find: X

v0 = ? X=0
Solution:
(ii)
k
v0 = x0 √m X

X = 2cm
1000
v0 = 0.02√ 1.6
𝐯𝟎 = 0.50 𝐦 𝐬−𝟏 Ans.
7.7 A car of mass 1300 kg is constructed using a frame supported by four springs. Each
spring has a spring constant 20,000 N m-1. If two people riding in the car have combined
mass of 160 kg, find frequency of vibration of car, when it is driven over a pothole in the
road. Assume the weight is evenly distributed.
Given data:
 m1 = 1300 kg
m2 = 160 kg
Total mass= m = m1 + m2
= 1300 + 160 = 1460 kg
k = 20,000 N m−1
To find:
f =?
Solution:
As four springs supporting the frame are parallel to each other, hence total spring constant will be
k’ = 4  20000 = 80,000 N m−1
m
T = 2√ k’
1
f = T
1 k’
f = √
2π m
1 80000
f = √
2 ×3.14 1460
f = 1.178 Hz
𝐟 = 𝟏. 𝟏𝟖 𝐇𝐳 Ans.
7.8 Find the amplitude, frequency and period of an object vibrating at the end of a spring,
𝛑
if the equation for its position, as a function of time, is 𝐱 = 𝟎. 𝟐𝟓 𝐜𝐨𝐬 (𝟖) 𝐭. What is
the displacement of the object after 2.0 s?
Given data:
π
x = 0.25 cos (8 ) t
t = 2s
To find:
(i) x0 = ?
(ii) f = ?
(iii) T = ?
(iv) displacement afte 2 s x = ?
Solution:
General equation of displacement of projection of a particle moving in a circle is given by
x = x0 cos(2f) t ------------ (1)
π
x = 0.25 cos (8 ) t------------ (2)
Comparing equation (1) and (2), we get
(i) 𝐱 𝟎 = 𝟎. 𝟐𝟓 𝐦 Ans.
π
(ii) 2f = 8
1
2f = 8
𝟏
𝐟 = Hz Ans.
𝟏𝟔
1
(iii) f = T
𝟏 𝟏
= 𝐓
𝟏𝟔
𝐓 = 𝟏𝟔 𝐬 Ans.
π
(iv) x = 0.25 cos (8 ) t
π
x = 0.25 cos ( 8 )  2
π
x = 0.25 cos (4 ) = 0.25 cos 450
x = 0.25 (0.707)
𝐱 = 𝟎. 𝟏𝟖 𝐦 Ans.