Energy in simple harmonic motion
Cambridge A-Level Physics (9702) · Unit 17: Oscillations · 7 flashcards
Energy in simple harmonic motion is topic 17.2 in the Cambridge A-Level Physics (9702) syllabus , positioned in Unit 17 — Oscillations , alongside Simple harmonic oscillations and Damped and forced oscillations, resonance. In one line: At maximum displacement, all the energy is stored as potential energy (PE) in the spring, specifically elastic potential energy.
Marked as A2 Level: examined at A Level in Paper 4 (A Level Structured Questions) and Paper 5 (Planning, Analysis and Evaluation). It is not tested on the AS-only papers (Papers 1, 2 and 3).
The deck below contains 7 flashcards — 2 definitions, 4 key concepts and 1 calculation — covering the precise wording mark schemes reward. Use the 2 definition cards to lock down command-word answers (define, state), then move on to the concept and calculation cards to handle explain, describe, calculate and compare questions.
What form of energy does a mass-spring system have at its maximum displacement during SHM
At maximum displacement, all the energy is stored as potential energy (PE) in the spring, specifically elastic potential energy.
What the Cambridge 9702 syllabus says
Official 2025-2027 spec · A2 LevelThese are the exact learning outcomes Cambridge sets for this topic. The candidate is expected to be able to do each of these on the relevant paper.
- describe the interchange between kinetic and potential energy during simple harmonic motion
- recall and use E = 2
- for the total energy of a system undergoing simple harmonic motion
Cambridge syllabus keywords to use in your answers
These are the official Cambridge 9702 terms tagged to this section. Mark schemes credit responses that use the exact term — weave them into your answers verbatim rather than paraphrasing.
Tips to avoid common mistakes in Energy in simple harmonic motion
- › Explicitly state that the minus sign shows acceleration is always in the opposite direction to displacement and directed towards the equilibrium position.
- › Provide the continuation of oscillations as the primary evidence for light damping.
Describe the energy transformation that occurs during simple harmonic motion (SHM).
In SHM, there is a continuous interchange between kinetic energy (KE) and potential energy (PE). At maximum displacement, all energy is PE; at equilibrium, all energy is KE.
What form of energy does a mass-spring system have at its maximum displacement during SHM?
At maximum displacement, all the energy is stored as potential energy (PE) in the spring, specifically elastic potential energy.
State the equation for the total energy (E) of a system undergoing simple harmonic motion.
The total energy of a system undergoing SHM is given by: E = (1/2) * m * ω² * A², where m is the mass, ω is the angular frequency, and A is the amplitude.
How does the total energy of a SHM system change if the amplitude is doubled, assuming all other factors remain constant?
If the amplitude (A) is doubled, the total energy (E) increases by a factor of four, since E is proportional to A². Thus, the new energy E' = 4E.
A mass-spring system undergoing SHM has a total energy of 4J and an angular frequency of 2 rad/s. If the mass is 0.5 kg, what is the amplitude of the motion?
Using E = (1/2) * m * ω² * A², rearrange for A: A = √(2E / (mω²)). Substituting values: A = √(2 * 4 / (0.5 * 2²)) = √4 = 2 m.
How is kinetic energy related to velocity during SHM?
Kinetic energy (KE) is maximum at the equilibrium position where velocity is maximum, and minimum (zero) at the extreme positions where velocity is zero. KE = (1/2)mv²
Explain how potential energy changes as an object moves from the equilibrium position to its maximum displacement in SHM.
As an object moves from the equilibrium position to maximum displacement, its potential energy increases, while its kinetic energy decreases. At maximum displacement, all energy is potential energy.
Review the material
Read full revision notes on Energy in simple harmonic motion — definitions, equations, common mistakes, and exam tips.
Read NotesMore topics in Unit 17 — Oscillations
Energy in simple harmonic motion sits alongside these A-Level Physics decks in the same syllabus unit. Each uses the same spaced-repetition system, so progress in one informs the next.
Key terms covered in this Energy in simple harmonic motion deck
Every term below is defined in the flashcards above. Use the list as a quick recall test before your exam — if you can't define one of these in your own words, flip back to that card.
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