Simple Harmonic Motion - Multiple Choice Questions

Q15. A body executes simple harmonic motion. Which one of the graphs, A to D, best shows the relationship between the kinetic energy, Ek, of the body and its distance from the centre of oscillation?

KE relates to velocity squared.

When x = 0 velocity is a maximum - when x = A velocity = zero.

Therefore choice C is a non-starter.

KE = 1/2 mv2 = 22f 2(A2 - x2)

= a constant value - a constant multiplied by x2

an x2graph curves upwards from the origin - you should know that from GCSE maths

The shape of the graph will therefore be that of choice B