Question 1

Refer to the first image (spring-mass system). If the block is displaced to the right by a distance $$x$$ and released from rest, which of the following correctly describes the direction and magnitude of the restoring force acting on the block?

Accepted Answer

The force is $$F = -kx$$ and points to the left.

Question 2

In the second image (graphs of $$x$$, $$v$$, $$a vs$$. $$t$$ for SHM), at what time(s) during one period $$T$$ does the block pass through the equilibrium position ($$x=0) $$with maximum speed?

Accepted Answer

$$t = 0, \frac{T}{2}, T$$

Question 3

Refer to the third image (energy diagram for a spring-mass oscillator). At $$x = 0$$, what is the value of the kinetic energy $$K$$ and potential energy $$U$$?

Accepted Answer

$$K = \frac{1}{2}kA^2$, \ U = 0$

Question 4

In the fourth image (physical pendulum), what is the torque about point $$O$$ due to gravity when the bat is at angle $$	heta$$ from the vertical?

Accepted Answer

$$	au = -mgh \sin 	heta$$

Question 5

The fifth image shows three types of damped oscillatory motion (B, C, D). Which curve (B, C, or D) represents critically damped motion?

Accepted Answer

Curve C

Question 6

The sixth image shows large dampers in a building. What is the primary purpose of these dampers?

Accepted Answer

To reduce the amplitude and acceleration of building vibrations

Question 7

The seventh image shows amplitude versus driving frequency for two systems (B and C). What does the sharpness of the resonance peak (curve B) indicate about the system?

Accepted Answer

It has a high quality factor $$Q$$ and low damping.

Question 8

The eighth image shows two real-world examples of resonance disasters. Which physical principle explains the collapse of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge (top image)?

Accepted Answer

Resonance due to wind-induced oscillations matching the bridge's natural frequency

Question 9

The ninth image shows a drum producing a sound wave. What type of wave is being produced in the air?

Accepted Answer

A longitudinal wave

Question 10

The tenth image shows the motion of water particles in a surface wave. What best describes the motion of these particles?

Accepted Answer

They move in approximately circular orbits.

Oscillations: Simple Harmonic Motion, Energy, Damping, and Resonance

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards