A mass is suspended vertically from a spring so it is at rest at the equilibrium position. The mass is pulled a short distance straight down and released so that it oscillates about the equilibrium position. The acceleration is greatest in magnitude and directed upward when the mass is
A) at its highest point.
B) at the equilibrium position.
C) at its lowest point.
D) somewhere between the equilibrium point and maximum extension.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The acceleration is greatest in magnitude and directed upward when the mass is at its lowest point because at this point, the spring is most stretched and exerts the maximum force on the mass according to Hooke's Law (F = -kx), resulting in the maximum acceleration upwards towards the equilibrium position.

A Mass Is Suspended Vertically from a Spring So It