Energy in SHM: If we double only the mass of a vibrating ideal mass-and-spring system, the mechanical energy of the system
A) increases by a factor of .
B) increases by a factor of 2.
C) increases by a factor of 3.
D) increases by a factor of 4.
E) does not change.

Question

Energy in SHM: If we double only the mass of a vibrating ideal mass-and-spring system, the mechanical energy of the system
A) increases by a factor of . 
B) increases by a factor of 2. 
C) increases by a factor of 3. 
D) increases by a factor of 4. 
E) does not change.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The mechanical energy of a vibrating ideal mass-and-spring system only depends on the amplitude of the vibration and the spring constant, but not on the mass. Doubling the mass will not change the mechanical energy, so the answer is E.

Energy in SHM: If We Double Only the Mass of a Vibrating