Simple Harmonic Motion key terms

Simple Harmonic Motion

Repetitive motion of an object where its acceleration is directly proportional to displacement.

Equilibrium

State of balance

Period

Time to complete a full cycle of motion

Amplitude

Maximum linear displacement from equilibrium position.

Length

Distance from point of rotation to center of mass

Compression/extension

Length measured from fixed point to center of mass

Hookes law

The distance of extension or compression is directly proportional to the force applied by the spring

Spring constant

Ratio of force to stretch measured in N/m: applies to any elastic object

Elastic potential energy

Energy by virtue of a spring being stretched or compressed

Simple pendulum

An object suspended from a string of length where the angle is 15 or less

Periodic motion

Motion that repeats itself at regular intervals