A system consists of a mass vibrating on the end of a spring.The total mechanical energy of this system
A)varies as a sine or cosine function.
B)is constant only when the mass is at maximum displacement.
C)is a maximum when the mass is at its equilibrium position only.
D)is constant,regardless of the displacement of the mass from the equilibrium position.
E)is always equal to the square of the amplitude.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The total mechanical energy of a simple harmonic motion system (such as a mass on a spring) remains constant, regardless of the displacement of the mass from the equilibrium position. This is due to the conservation of mechanical energy in a system with no external forces acting on it. The energy oscillates between kinetic and potential energy, but the total amount of energy remains constant.

A System Consists of a Mass Vibrating on the End