Five particles undergo damped harmonic motion. Values for the spring constant k, the damping constant b, and the mass m are given below. Which leads to the smallest rate of loss of mechanical energy?
A) k = 100N/m, m = 50g, b = 8g/s
B) k = 150N/m, m = 50g, b = 5g/s
C) k = 150N/m, m = 10g, b = 8g/s
D) k = 200N/m, m = 8g, b = 6g/s
E) k = 100N/m, m = 2g, b = 4g/s

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The rate of loss of mechanical energy in damped harmonic motion is proportional to the damping constant b. Among the given options, choice B has the smallest damping constant b = 5g/s, leading to the smallest rate of energy loss.

Five Particles Undergo Damped Harmonic Motion