Question 1

Why does a spring-mass system execute simple harmonic motion?

Accepted Answer

Its restoring force is F = -kx, so acceleration is also proportional to displacement and directed opposite to it. The resulting equation a = -(k/m)x has the simple harmonic motion form a = -ω²x.

Question 2

What is the time period of an ideal spring-mass oscillator?

Accepted Answer

The period is T = 2π√(m/k), where m is the oscillating mass and k is the spring constant. In the ideal linear Hooke’s-law range, it does not depend on the initial amplitude.

Question 3

Where are kinetic and potential energy maximum in SHM?

Accepted Answer

Kinetic energy is maximum at the mean position, where speed is greatest and displacement is zero. Potential energy is maximum at x = ±A, where the speed is zero and the spring is most stretched or compressed.

Question 4

Does gravity change the period of a vertical spring-mass system?

Accepted Answer

Gravity shifts the equilibrium position downward by x0 = mg/k, but the oscillation about that new equilibrium still has period T = 2π√(m/k). Gravity changes the equilibrium position, not the ideal spring-mass period.

Question 5

What does the negative sign in F = -kx mean?

Accepted Answer

It means the restoring force is opposite to displacement. If the mass is to the right of equilibrium, the force points left; if it is to the left, the force points right. The force therefore always points toward the mean position.

Spring–Mass SHM Lab: Hooke’s Law, Phase and Energy

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