Question
Question: A 5 kg mass bounces in simple harmonic motion at the end of a spring. At which point the acceleratio...
A 5 kg mass bounces in simple harmonic motion at the end of a spring. At which point the acceleration of the mass is the greatest –
A
When the spring is fully compressed and when the spring is fully extended
B
When the spring is at its rest length
C
When the spring is halfway between its rest length and is fully extended or compressed length
D
The acceleration is constant.
Answer
When the spring is fully compressed and when the spring is fully extended
Explanation
Solution
When the spring is fully compressed or fully extended is when the Hook's law forces are the greatest, and this indicates that the acceleration is the greatest. F = ma.