Simple harmonic motion (SHM) is a type of periodic motion where an object oscillates back and forth over the same path, with the motion being described by a sine or cosine function. It is characterized by its simplicity and predictability, making it a fundamental concept in physics.
Definition of Simple Harmonic Motion
Mathematical Representation: SHM can be expressed as ( x = A \cos(\omega t + \delta) ), where ( x ) is the displacement, ( A ) is the amplitude, ( \omega ) is the angular frequency, ( t ) is time, and ( \delta ) is the phase constant (Read and Ball, 1976; Cnxuniphysics, 2016).
Characteristics: The motion repeats itself at regular intervals, known as the period. The velocity and acceleration are also sinusoidal functions of time (Li, 2023; Chong, 2022).
Applications of Simple Harmonic Motion
Mass-Spring Systems: SHM is commonly observed in mass-spring systems, where the restoring force is proportional to the displacement, following Hooke’s Law (Nugraha et al., 2020).
Pendulums: A simple pendulum exhibits SHM when the angle of swing is small, allowing the motion to be approximated as harmonic (Pfaff, 2002; Kinchin, 2016).
Mechanical and Acoustic Systems: SHM is foundational in understanding mechanical vibrations and sound waves, as well as in the study of light and quantum mechanics (Nugraha et al., 2020).
Energy Conservation: In SHM systems, the conservation of mechanical energy can simplify problem-solving, as potential and kinetic energy interchange while the total energy remains constant (Guang, 2015).
Conclusion
Simple harmonic motion is a fundamental concept in physics, characterized by its periodic and sinusoidal nature. It is widely applicable in various systems, including pendulums, mass-spring systems, and in the study of waves and oscillations. Understanding SHM is crucial for exploring more complex physical phenomena.
References
Pfaff, R., 2002. Simple harmonic motion. **. https://doi.org/10.4324/9780080479354-25
Li, J., 2023. Using Differential Equation to Explain the Simple Harmonic Motion Equation. Highlights in Science, Engineering and Technology. https://doi.org/10.54097/hset.v49i.8562
Nugraha, D., Cari, C., Suparmi, A., & Sunarno, W., 2020. INVESTIGATION OF UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS CONCEPTUAL UNDERSTANDING ABOUT SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION ON MASS-SPRING SYSTEM. Periódico Tchê Química. https://doi.org/10.52571/ptq.v17.n35.2020.05_nugraha_pgs_55_64.pdf
Read, D., & Ball, B., 1976. Simple harmonic motion. Physics Education, 11, pp. 72 – 73. https://doi.org/10.1088/0031-9120/11/2/103
Guang, Z., 2015. Discussions on the Conservation of Mechanical Energy of Simple Harmonic Motion. Journal of Anqing Teachers College.
Kinchin, J., 2016. Using Tracker to prove the simple harmonic motion equation. Physics Education, 51. https://doi.org/10.1088/0031-9120/51/5/053003
, C., 2016. Simple Harmonic Motion. **.
Chong, Z., 2022. A Qualitative Analysis to Simple Harmonic Motion. **.
