An oscillatory motion must be simple harmonic if:
A)the amplitude is small
B)the potential energy is equal to the kinetic energy
C)the motion is along the arc of a circle
D)the acceleration varies sinusoidally with time
E)the derivative, dU/dx, of the potential energy is negative

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A simple harmonic motion is characterized by an acceleration that varies sinusoidally with time. Therefore, option D is the best choice. The other options are not sufficient conditions for a motion to be simple harmonic.

An Oscillatory Motion Must Be Simple Harmonic If