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Reviewed CSCA Physics question · Standard

A particle oscillates with simple harmonic motion. Its displacement from equilibrium is given by x(t) = 0.080 sin(5π t + π/3), where x is in meters and t is in seconds. What is the maximum speed of the particle?

  1. 0.40 m/s
  2. 1.26 m/s
  3. 2.51 m/s
  4. 0.80 m/s
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer

B. 1.26 m/s

Principle or equation

In simple harmonic motion, x(t) = A sin(ωt + φ), the velocity is v(t) = Aω cos(ωt + φ), so the maximum speed is v_max = Aω.

Why this answer is correct

From the equation, amplitude A = 0.080 m and angular frequency ω = 5π rad/s. Thus v_max = Aω = 0.080 × 5π = 0.080 × 15.708 = 1.257 m/s, approximately 1.26 m/s.

Example

If A = 0.10 m and ω = 2π rad/s, then v_max = 0.10 × 2π = 0.628 m/s.

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