If a body is executing simple harmonic motion with frequency n, then the frequency of its potential energy is:
A
3n
B
4n
C
n
D
2n
Step-by-Step Solution
Displacement Equation: For a body executing Simple Harmonic Motion (SHM) with frequency n, the angular frequency is ω=2πn. The displacement x varies with time t as x=Asin(ωt) (or a cosine function).
Potential Energy Formula: The potential energy (U) of the oscillator is given by U=21kx2, where k is the force constant.
Substitution and Trigonometric Identity: Substituting the displacement equation:
U=21k(Asin(ωt))2=21kA2sin2(ωt)
Using the trigonometric identity sin2θ=21−cos(2θ):
U=21kA2[21−cos(2ωt)]=41kA2−41kA2cos(2ωt)
Frequency Analysis: The term cos(2ωt) indicates that the potential energy oscillates with an angular frequency of 2ω. Since frequency is proportional to angular frequency (f=2πΩ), the frequency of the potential energy is 2n.
Conclusion: Both kinetic and potential energies in SHM vary periodically with double the frequency of the displacement (2n), although the total energy remains constant.
Practice Mode Available
Master this Topic on Sushrut
Join thousands of students and practice with AI-generated mock tests.