An object having mass m is attached to a spring of force constant k oscillates with simple harmonic motion. The total mechanical energy of the system is E and the maximum displacement from equilibrium is A. What is the system's potential energy when its kinetic energy is equal to 3/4E?
What is the system's potential energy when its kinetic energy is equal to ?
1. kA2
2. kA2/2
3. kA2/4
4. kA2/8

The potential energy of the system is .

Explanation:

Given :

Mass of object , m .

Spring constant , k .

Total energy , E .

Maximum displacement , A .

We have to find potential energy when its kinetic energy is equal to 3/4E .

Now, we know :

Total energy is constant in simple harmonic motion.

Therefore ,

Total energy = Kinetic energy + potential energy .

Hence , this is the required solution.

when two balls of the different masses are dropped from equal height, they reach the ground at the same time .this is because they experience the same acceleration.

the acceleration is independent of mass.

thus when they are dropped they will always maintain the same velocity and travel the same distance (neglect air resistance of course) at the same time.