SHM 1

RSM79-PH-P3-SHM-1
1. IIT-JEE Syllabus
Stable Equilibrium and simple harmonic motion, Equation of SHM, Terms
associated with SHM, Energy, SHM as a projection of circular motion, Simple
Pendulum, Oscillations of a mass attached to a spring.
2. From Periodic Motion to SHM

Any motion that repeats itself after equal interval of time is called periodic motion.
If a particle, undergoing periodic motion, covers the same path back and forth about a
mean position, it is said to be executing an oscillation (or vibration).
Using advanced mathematics, it can be shown that the displacement of a particle in an
oscillation can always be expressed in terms of sines and cosines. This, coupled with
the fact that the term harmonic is generally applied to expressions containing sine and
cosine functions actuates us to use the term harmonic motion for the oscillation.
Every harmonic motion is characterised by (i) time period (ii) frequency (iii) amplitude
and (iv) phase.
The Time Period (T) of a harmonic motion is the time required to complete one
oscillation (or cycle). The frequency ( or n or f) of a harmonic motion is the number of
oscillations per unit time.
1
From these definitions, it follows; f 
T
Our topic under discission is simple harmonic motion (SHM) and at this stage we just
state it is a special type of harmonic motion.
3. Recalling Equilibrium
Before investigating what exactly an SHM is, let us have a brief review of equilibrium of a
particle (or body). Without disturbing the continuity of discussion, it may be stated here
that when a body is slightly disturbed from its stable equilibrium it may execute SHM.
This statement shows that equilibrium plays an important role in SHM and that’s why we
are doing this review.
3.1 Meaning of Equilibrium

For a particle or body,
 
If  F = O it is said to be in translational equilibrium.
 
If   = O it is said to be in rotational equilibrium.
   
If  F is zero for a particle then   is also zero (or   is zero then  F is also zero).
  
Therefore for a particle toe be in equilibrium either we have to show  F = O or   =

O
A rigid body is said to be in equilibrium only when it simultaneously confirms translational

as well as

rotational

equilibrium.
 So,for showing a rigid body in equilibrium we have to
show  F = O as well as   = O .
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RSM79-PH-P3-SHM-2
3.2 Stable, Unstable and Neutral Equilibrium

Equilibrium can be further classified as stable, unstable and neutral equilibrium.
On being slightly disturbed from its equilibrium position, if a body
(i) tends to acquire the original configuration then the body is said to be in stable
equilibrium.
(ii) tends to acquire a new position then the body is said to be in unstable equilibrium.
(iii) remains at that position then the body is said to be in neutral equilibrium.
3.3 Stable, Unstable and neutral equilibrium in terms of potential energy

If potential energy of a body does not change with any change in its configuration then it
is said to be in neutral equilibrium. If potential energy of a body changes with change in
its configuration then the body will have maximum potential energy at unstable
equilibrium and minimum potential energy at stable equilibrium.
4. Stable Equilibrium And Oscillation

Oscillation is intimately related with stable
equilibrium. To illustrate it, let us consider a
typical curve between the position (x) of the
particle and its potential energy (U) for a one
dimensional particle motion in a conservative
field.
Tangents drawn at B, C, D and E are parallel to
the x-axis. This means, at these points,
 dU   dU 
slope   is zero. Recalling F =   , we can further say that at B, C, D and E,
 dx   dx 
force acting on the particle is zero i.e. these are equilibrium positions.
For portions BC and DE, an increase in the value of x corresponds to an increase in the
value of U. The slope of the curve at any point in this portion is positive and hence, force
 dU 
F    is negative. It means, in BC and DE region, the force acting on the particle
 dx 
tends to pull it in a region of lower potential energy. Similarly it can be shown that for the
portions AB and CD (where slope is negative and hence force is positive) again the force
pulls the particle in the region of lower potential energy.
Thus any slight displacement of the particle, either way from the position of minimum
potential energy results into a force tending to bring the particle back to its original
position. This force is often referred to as restoring force and site of minimum potential
energy, as recalled earlier, is the position of stable equilibrium.
Exercise1: Following the above logic try to show that point C and E in figure are positions
of unstable equilibrium.
What happens if the particle is slightly disturbed from minimum potential energy
position and then released?
RSM79-PH-P3-SHM-3
Let the particle be slightly displaced from B to a new position P and then released.
Because of restoring force, it returns to B. Since the system is conservative, therefore
the decrease in potential energy (= UP  UB) is compensated by an increase in kinetic
energy. This kinetic energy at B influences the particle to go to other side of the curve.
Once again PE starts increasing which results into decrease in KE. At Q, kinetic energy
is reduced to zero. The particle remains momentarily at rest and then starts moving back
retracing its path under the action of restoring force. Thus, on being slightly disturbed,
the particle keeps on oscillating between the two extreme points P and Q. It remains
confined in a bounded region (PBQ) and such a region always exists about a point of
minimum potential energy or stable equilibrium.
5. SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION

5.1 Linear SHM
From earlier discussion, it is now clear that when a particle is disturbed from its stable
equilibrium, it oscillates to and fro about that position.
Let us consider such an oscillation on a straight line. If x represents the displacement of
the particle from equilibrium position, then acceleration of the simplest possible motion
can be given by
a  x . . . (1)
i.e. acceleration is always
(i) proportional to the displacement.
(ii) directed towards the equilibrium point.
A motion showing such a feature is known as simple harmonic motion.
5.2 Angular SHM
Instead of straight line motion, if particle or centre of mass of body is oscillating on a
small arc of circular path, then condition for angular SHM is
Angular acceleration   (angular displacement) . . . (2)
5.3 Force law of SHM
From (1), it follows that
F = ma = kx . . . (3)
where k is a constant of proportionality
similarly, from (2), for angular SHM
 = I = C . . . (4)
where C is a constant of proportionality.
If a body oscillates between P and Q with O as equilibrium
position in accordance with equation (3) and (4) then for
force (or torque), we can get plotting as shown in the figure.
If the body is displaced to the right of O, the force points
towards the left. If the body is displaced towards the left of
O, the force is directed towards the right.
Such force is often called as linear restoring force.
Term linear is used to highlight the fact that force is
proportional to first power of x.
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Exercise 2 : For F =  kx, motion is confined between two points in space. Is it true
for (i) F = kx (ii) F =  k x .
5.4 SHM in terms of Potential Energy

Using dU = Fdx or dU = (d)
Potential energy of particle executing SHM is given by
1 2 For this reference zero
U= kx . . . (5)
2 of potential energy is
1 taken at x = 0 (or  = 0)
Or, U = k2 . . . (6)
2
Exercise 3 : For a particle in motion, it is known that its potential energy is directly
proportional to x2 where x is the displacement from a fixed point. Can
we say that it will always execute SHM?
Illustration 1: The linear displacement (x) of a particle varies with time as

x = A sin t + Bcos t. State whether the particle is executing SHM or not.
d2 x
Solution : a= = 2(Asint + Bcost) = 2x
dt 2
 a  x
 Particle is executing SHM.
6. Analytical Treatment to SHM

6.1 x as a function of time
a = x . . . (7)
where k is a constant of proportionality.
dv
 v =x  v =  c  x 2 . . . (8)
dt
where c is a constant of integration
dx
proceeding with ‘+’ sign and writing v = , we have,
dt
dx
 dt dx
 c   dt

 
 x2 


 A  x2
2
 [A = c  a new constant]
 
x
 sin1   = t + , where  is another constant of integration.
A
 x = A sin(t + ) . . . (9)
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Exercise 4: Find x as a function of time for v =  c   2 x 2
Equation (9) has three constants namely A,  and .
6.2 Determining A
From equation (9)
For sin(t + ) = 1,  x=A
For sin(t + ) = 1,  x = A
Therefore A is the maximum magnitude of displacement in the SHM and is known as
amplitude of the oscillation
Note that x can be positive or negative but A can never be negative.
Illustration 2: If two SHMs are represented by equations y1 = 5[sin{2 t+( /6)}] and
y2 = 5[sin(3 t)+ 3cos(3 t)], find the ratio of their amplitudes.
Solution: We have, y2 = 5[sin(3t)+3cos(3t)]

Taking 5 = A cos . . . (1)
and 5 3 = Asin . . . (2)
We get,

y2 = Acossin3t + Asincos3t = Asin(3t + )
3
From equation (1) and (2)
y2 = 10sin(3t + /3)

and so, A = 10 and  = tan1  3  =
3
A1 5 1
  =
A 2 10 2
6.3 Phase
The time varying quantity (t + ) is referred as ‘phase’ of the motion. Denoting it with ,
the equation of SHM becomes x = A sin . . . (10)
Importance of phase: By knowing phase, we can locate the position of particle as well
as find the direction of subsequent motion.
Exercise 5: In one oscillation of SHM, the particle can be at the same position for two
different points of time. Like wise, can a particle have same phase for two
different times in an oscillation?
Illustration 3: Find the phase of the motion in an SHM for x = A/2.
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A  5
Solution : x = A sin  = A sin   = or
2 6 6

Physical meaning of  =
6
Particle is at point P and it is going
towards M.
5
Physical meaning of  =
6
Particle is at point P and it is going
towards point O.
Illustration 4: Two particles execute SHM parallel to the x-axis about the origin with
same amplitude and frequency. At a certain instant they are found at
distance (A/3) from the origin on opposite sides but their velocities are
found to be in the same directions. From this condition, find the
possible phase difference between them.
Solution : As frequencies of two SHMs are same so their phase difference ‘’ is
independent of time.
Let equation of two SHM be
x1 = Asin . . . (1)
and x2= Asin( + ) . . . (2)
Substituting the values from the problem
1
sin = . . . (3)
3
1
and sin( + ) =  . . . (4)
3
Expanding equation (4)
1
sin cos + sincos = 
3
1 2 2 1 1 2 2
 cos + sin =  [ for sin = , cos =  ]
3 3 3 3 3
 9cos2 + 2cos  7 = 0
7
 cos = 1,
9
7
  =  or cos1  
9
For  = , v1 and v2 are in opposite directions.
7
 Required answer is  = cos1  
9
7
[ = cos1   will have two answers. One angle will be in first
9
quadrant, whereas second will be in fourth quadrant]
Justification of two answers. The four possible sets are
RSM79-PH-P3-SHM-7
(a) (b)
(c) (d)
For (a) and (c), phase difference is  whereas for (b) and (d) it
7
is given by  = cos1  
9
6.4 The constant 
 = t + 
at t = 0, (0) = 
Thus ‘’ is the phase at the start of motion. (i.e. at the instant from where time is being
counted).
 is often referred as initial phase or phase constant or epoch.
6.5 The constant 

If 1 be the phase at t and 2 be the phase t + T, then 2  1 = 2
 [{(t+T) + }  (t + )] = 2
2
 = =  (angular frequency)
T
6.6 Equations of SHM

(i) x as a function of time
x = A sin(t + ) . . . (11)
(ii) v as a function of time
dx
v= = Acos(t + ) . . . (12)
dt
where A is called the velocity amplitude.
(iii) a as function of time
dv
a= = A2sin(t + ) . . . (13)
dt
where A2 is called the acceleration amplitude.
(iv) v as a function of displacement
v =  A 2  x2 . . . (14)
(v) a as function of displacement
a = 2x . . . (15)
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Exercise 6: Determine whether or not the following quantities can be in the same
direction for an SHM
(a) displacement and velocity. (b) velocity and acceleration.
(c) displacement and acceleration.
Some important notes

1. The amplitude A and phase constant  of the oscillation are determined by the
initial position and velocity of the particle.
2. Once motion has started, the particle continues to oscillate with constant
amplitude and phase constant at a fixed frequency, unless other forces disturb
the system.
7. Energy in SHM
[[
7.1 Kinetic Energy (KE)
From definition of kinetic energy, K = 1 mv

2
2
As, v = Acost or v =  A 2  x 2
1 1 1
K = mA22cos2t= m2A2[1+ K= m2(A2x2)
2 4 2
cos2t] 1
for x = 0, K = m2A2 = Kmax.
2
Kinetic energy varies periodically with
for x = A, K = 0 = Kmin.
double the frequency of SHM
7.2 Potential Energy (PE)

x
1

2
Potential Energy U is given by U = dU = dW =  m  xdx cos180 = m2x2
0
2
In above derivation
(i) Angle between F and dx is taken as 180 as the two are oppositely directed.
(ii) Reference zero for U is taken at x = 0.
1 1
As, U= mx22 U= m2x2
2 2
1 1 at x = 0, U = 0 = Umin
= m2A2sin2t= m2A2[1
2 4 1
for x = A, U = m2A2 = Umax
cos2t] 2
Like Kinetic energy, Potential energy
also varies periodically with double
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the frequency of SHM

7.3 Total Mechanical Energy (E)
1
E=K+U= m2A2 = constant
2
The variation of K, U and E as a function of displacement and time are shown below.
If y = A sin t ; then K = ¼ m2 A2 (1 + cos 2t) and
1 1
U= m2 A2 (1cos 2t)  E = K+U = m2 A2 = constant
4 4
i.e. E does not depend upon time or x.
The variation of K, U and E as function of position and time are shown below :
7.4 Average value of P.E. and K.E.
The average value of P.E. for complete cycle is given by

1 T  T1
Uaverage  Udt   m 2 A 2 sin2  t   

T 0 T 0 2
1
= m 2 A 2
4
The average value of K.E. for complete cycle
T
1
Kaverage =
T  Kdt
0
T
1 1
 2 m
2
= A 2 cos 2 tdt
T
0
1
= m 2 A 2
4
Thus average values of K.E. and P.E. of harmonic oscillator are equal and each equal to
half of the total energy
Kaverage = Uaverage
1 1
= E= m 2 A 2
2 4
Exercise 7: The amplitude of an SHM is doubled. Find the corresponding change in

(a) time period (b) maximum velocity
(c) maximum acceleration (d) total energy
RSM79-PH-P3-SHM-10
Illustration 5: A particle executes SHM.

(a) What fraction of total energy is kinetic and what frication is potential
when displacement is one half of the amplitude;
(b) At what displacement the kinetic and potential energies are same?
1 A
Solution : (a) E = m2A2 for x =
2 2
1 1 3 2
K= m2(A2x2) = m2  A 
2 2 4 
3
 K/E =
4
1 1 A2
U= m2x2 = m2
2 2 4
U 1
 
E 4
1 1
(b) K = U  m2 (A2  x2)= m2x2  x = 0.707A
2 2
8. SHM as a projection of circular motion
Let a particle be moving uniformly on a circle of radius A with angular speed .

If at t = 0, particle starts its motion from x-axis and in time t, it goes to p, then we have
X = OQ = Acos = Acost
X = OR = Asin = Asint
where Q and R feet of the perpendiculars drawn from P on diameter along the x-
axis and the y-axis respectively
From above equation it can be said that Q and R performing SHM about O along the x-
axis and the y-axis respectively with the same angular speed .
From figure (b) centripetal acceleration of the particle at P is A2. Resolving this
acceleration along PR and PQ
aR = 2Asint = 2x, aQ = 2Acost = 2y
The direction of aR is opposite to x and the direction aQ is opposite to y.
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Therefore, also from acceleration point of view, it can be said that Q and R are
performing SHM.
9. Simple Pendulum
9.1 Simple Pendulum in Inertial Frame
A heavy point mass (bob), suspended by a light, long and O

inextensible string, forms a simple pendulum.
Length of the simple pendulum is the distance between the
point of suspension and the centre of mass of the suspended l
mass.
Consider the bob when string deflects through a small angle 
from equilibrium position.
Forces acting on the bob are tension (T) in the string and O
weight (mg) of the bob.
Torque on the bob about point O is  T
 = mg + T = mg  sin + 0
  = mg   (as  is very small) … l
(1)
Moment of inertia of the bob about the point O is I = m  2 mgcos
d2 mgsin mg
 2
  = m 2 dt …(2)
For anticlockwise ,  is clockwise, hence from (1) and (2), we get
d2
d2
 2 dt 2  
m = mg  dt 2 = (g/ ) 
d2  g
Comparing with the equation = 2, we get  =
dt 2 

Since T = 2/,  T = 2 g
Above result is derived using the concept of torque. The same can be derived using the
concept of force also.
9.2 Simple Pendulum in Non-inertial Frame
If a simple pendulum is made to oscillate in a non inertial frame the pseudo force must or
torque due to pseudo force should also be taken into account. For a simple pendulum

inside a frame accelerating with acceleration a , with respect to an inertial frame, time

period is given by T = 2 ga .
 
For example,
1. Time period of pendulum inside a cart moving with acceleration a on

horizontal road, T = 2 .
g  a2
2
RSM79-PH-P3-SHM-12
2. Time period of the pendulum inside an elevator accelerating in upward


direction with acceleration a, T = 2
ga
Note: If acceleration of non-inertial frame with respect to inertial frame is not in vertical
direction then in equilibrium position, the string of pendulum makes some angle with
vertical.
Exercise 8 : Find the time period of a simple pendulum of length  suspended from the
ceiling of a car moving with a speed v on a circular horizontal rod of radius r.
Exercise 9 : Find the time period of a simple pendulum of length L having a charge q on
its bob when the pendulum is oscillating in a uniform electric field E
directed (a) parallel to g (b) perpendicular to g
Exercise 10 : A hollow metal sphere is filled with water and a small hole is made at its
bottom. It is hanging by a long thread and is made to oscillate. How will
the time period change if water is allowed to flow through the hole till the
sphere is empty.
9.3 Simple Pendulum when Length of the Pendulum is Comparable to

Radius of the Earth

As shown in the figure, taking direction of g as directed towards the centre of the earth,
we have
 = mg  OB = mgL sin ( + )   mgL ( + )
 
  = mgL  1  
 
 l
But   sin  = y/L y ( + )
and   tan  = y/R
 y /R  R  mg
 =mgL 1   =mgL [1+ (L/R)] mg cos ( + )
 y / L  mg sin ( + )
 =  mgL2 (1/L + 1/R)
1 1
 I = mgL2    
L R
1 1
  = g   
L R
   
i.e. Oscillations is simple harmonic in nature.
RSM79-PH-P3-SHM-13
1

 1 1
g  
L R
1
T = 2 1 1 .
g  
L R
Special cases :
L
(a) If L < < R, 1/L > > 1/R and T = 2
g
R
(b) If L   then T = 2  84.6 minutes.
g
R
(c) If L = R then T = 2  1 hour.
2g
(d) If L = 1 m then T = 2 seconds and it is called second pendulum.
Illustration 6: Show that the period of oscillation of simple pendulum at depth h below
earth’s surface is inversely proportional to R  h where R is the radius of
earth. Find out the time period of a second pendulum at a depth R/2 from
the earth’s surface?
Solution: At earth’s surface the value of time period is given by

L
T  2
g
Where L is the effective length of the simple pendulum and g is the
GM 4
acceleration due to gravity and is equal to   RG . At depth h
R 3
if the period is Th and acceleration due to gravity is gh,
L
Then, Th = 2
gh
Th g R
Hence,  
T gh Rh
T R
or Th =
R h
Thus Th is inversely proportional to R h
Time period at h = R/2 is given by
R
TR/2 = 2  2 2  2.8 sec
R R
2
10. Oscillation of a mass attached to a spring
RSM79-PH-P3-SHM-14
10.1 Mass spring system when spring is horizontal
If y is a small extension or compression in the spring

from the equilibrium state the restoring force
produced is given by
F =  kx
Where k is called force constant or spring factor.
 Equation of motion of the mass M is given by
d2 x d2 x k
M 2   kx or 2
  x
dt dt M
This represents an S.H.M. its angular frequency  is
k
 
M
and the period of oscillation is
M
T = 2
k
Exercise 11: A spring is cut into two equal parts. What will be the difference in time
period of the spring pendulum thus formed from the original spring
pendulum?
10.2 Mass spring system when spring is vertical
The weight Mg of the body produces an initial elongation, such that

Mg – kyo = 0. If y is the displacement from this equilibrium position
the total restoring force will be
Mg – k(y0 + y) = – ky
M
Again we get, T = 2
k
Note that the gravity has no effect on the time period of oscillations.
In general, time period of a spring mass system depends only on spring and mass and it
is independent of external forces provided that external forces are constant and acts
throughout the motion.
10.3 SHM of a particle under uniform spring with a mass
If  is the length of spring, then mass per unit length is given by m/L.
Consider an element of length d at a distance  from the fixed end of the spring.
m
The mass of the element is d
L
The instantaneous velocity of the free end of the spring is v which is equal to the velocity
of mass M. As velocity of spring act fixed end is always zero,
vx
the velocity of the element at a distance x is given by
L
RSM79-PH-P3-SHM-15
2
1m  vx 
Then K.E. of the element = dx  
2 L  L 
K.E. of the spring at that instant
 1 mv 2 1 mv 2 L3 mv 2

2
= x dx = . 
0 2 L3 2 L3 3 6
1
K.E. of mass M = Mv 2
2
Total K.E. of the system
1 mv 2 1 m 2
T = Mv 2  = M   v
2 6 2 3
If y is the displacement of the mass M at that instant from its equilibrium position, then
dx
v=
dt
and restoring force produced is, F = – kx
y Kx 2
Then P.E. U =  kx dx =
0 2
Hence total energy E of the system
2
1 m   dx  kx 2
E=T+U= M     
2 3   dt  2
dE
Now as the total energy of the system is conserved 0
dx
d 1 m   dx 
2
kx 2 
or  M      0
dx  2  3   dt  3 
 m  d2 x
or  M    kx  0
 3  dt 2
This represents a simple harmonic motion. Its angular frequency is,
k
=
Mm 3
1 k
Hence, frequency (n) =
2 Mm 3
Illustration 7: The spring mass system is shown in the figure.

The spring stretches 2 cm from its free length
when a force of 10 N is applied. This spring is
stretched 10 cm from its free length, a body of
mass m = 2kg attached to it and released from
rest at time t = 0. Find
(a) the force constant of the spring.
(b) the time period and frequency of vibration
(c) the amplitude of vibration.
(d) the initial velocity and acceleration
(e) the maximum velocity and acceleration
(f) the spring force at the two extreme position of the body.
RSM79-PH-P3-SHM-16
(g) the time taken by the body to move half way towards the equilibrium
position from its initial position.
Write the equation of motion of the body in the from x = A sin (  +  ) where
x is the displacement from the equilibrium position. Express the
spring force as a function of time.
10N
Solution : (a) k = = 500 N/m
0.02m
m
(b) time period T = 2
k
2
= 2 = 0.397 s
500
1
frequency f = = 2.51 Hz
T
angular frequency= 15.8 rad/s
 = 2f
(c) In equilibrium position acceleration = 0

k0 – mg = 0
mg 2(10 )
0 =   0.04 m
k 500
amplitude = maximum displacement from the equilibrium position
A = I - 0 = 0.10 – 0.04 = 0.06 m.
(d) Initial velocity = 0 (given)

ki  mg
Initial acceleration =
m
500(0.1)  2(10)
=
2
2
= 15 m/s upward.
(e) Maximum velocity =A
= 0.06  15.8 = 0.95 m/s
Maximum acceleration = A2 = 15 m /s2
(f) At one extreme position

spring force Fs = kI = 500 (0.1) = 50 N
At the other extreme position
Fs = k(A - 0) = 500 (0.06 – 0.04) = 10 N compression.
The equation of motion in SHM is
x = A sin (t + )
 dx/dt = A  cos (t + )
initial condition t = 0, x = 10 – 4 = 6 cm = 0.06 m.
dx
0
dt
A sin  = 0.06
And A  cos  = 0
RSM79-PH-P3-SHM-17

 = and A = 0.06 m
2
 x = 00.06 sin (t + /2)
(g) At the given position x = A/2 = 0.03 m

 0.03 = 0.06 sin (t + /2)
t = /3  t = /3
= 0.066 s
The instantaneous velocity
v =  A 2  x2 =  A 2  A 2 / 4
3
= A = 0.82 m/s upward
2
or v = A cos (t + /2)
= A  cos (/3 + /2)
3
= A  cos (5/3) = - A = 0.82 m/s upward]
2
Instantaneous acceleration
a = - 2x= (A/2) 2 = 7.5 m/s2 i.e. 7.5 m/s2 upwards
spring force Fs = k (0 + x)
= mg + kA sin (t + )= 20 + 30 sin (t + /2) = 20 + 30 cos t N
Illustration 8: For the arrangement shown in m = 1kg

k = 104N/m
figure, the spring is initially
compressed by 3cm. When the
spring is released the block
collides with the wall and 4cm
rebounds to compress the
spring again.
(a) If the coefficient of restitution is 0.7, find the maximum compression
in the spring after collision.
(b) The spring is released at t = 0. Find the minimum time after which the
block becomes stationary.
Solution: (a) Velocity of the block just before collision,

1 1 1
mv 02  kx 2  kx 02
2 2 2
or v0 =
k 2
m

x0  x 2 
here, x0 = 0.03 m, x = 0.01 m, k = 104N/m, m = 1 kg
 v0 = 2 2m / s
After collision , v = ev0 = (0.7) 2 2 = 2 m/s.
Maximum compression in the spring is
1 2 1 2 1
kx m  kx  mv 2
2 2 2
RSM79-PH-P3-SHM-18
 0.01 2  1 24
2
m 2
or xm = x 2  v  =2.23 cm
k 10
(b) In the case of spring – mass

system, since the time period is +3
sin-1(1/3)
independent of the amplitude of
oscillation , x
O
therefore, -1
/2 /2
T0  1 1  
v
T =    2 sin    -3
2   3 
sin-1(1/3)
m 1 1  
T=   2 sin  
k   3 
11. Physical Pendulum

Any rigid body suspended from a fixed support constitutes a physical pendulum.
Consider the situation when the body is displaced through a O
small angle . Torque on the body about o is given by
 = mg  sin (1)
where  = distance between point of suspension and centre

of mass of the body.
G
If I be the M.I. of the body about O.
Then  = I (2)
From (1) and (2), we get
d2 d2
I = -mg  sin as  and are oppositely
dt 2 dt 2 mg
directed.
d2 mg 
 2
  Since  is very small.
dt I
d2
Comparing with the equation 2
= -2, we get
dt
mg I
=  T = 2
I mg 
Exercise 12: What is the equivalent length of a simple pendulum for the physical
pendulum given above?
Illustration 9: A uniform square lamina of side 2a is hung up by one corner and oscillates in
its own plane which is vertical. Find the length of the equivalent simple
pendulum.
RSM79-PH-P3-SHM-19
Solution: When the lamina ABCD is at rest, its centre of gravity G must lie vertically
below the corner A by which it is hung.
By geometry, the distance between centre of gravity and centre of suspension
i.e., AG = 2 a = L
M.I. of lamina about horizontal axis passing through C.G. and perpendicular
to its plane is given by
Ig  m
 2a  2   2a  2  2 ma 2
12 3
Radius of gyration about this axis is given by
2
K 2  a2
3
Then length of the equivalent simple pendulum
2 2
2 a
K 4 2
 L  2a  3  a
L 2a 3
Illustration 10: A disc is suspended at a point R/2 above its centre. Find its period of
oscillation.
Solution : When the disc is rotated through an angle  about O, the restoring torque is
R
0  mg sin  .
2
d2
Using second law 0 = I0 , and taking  to be small sin  .
dt 2
d2 mgR
 0
dt 2 2I0
O
2I0  point of suspension
 T  2 , R/2
mgR

2 C
MR2 R 3MR2
I0   M  
2 2 4
3R
T  2
2g
RSM79-PH-P3-SHM-20
12. Solution to the Exercise
Solution 1 : For BC and CD region, force pulls the particle in the region of lower
potential energy. Thus, once particle is displaced slightly from C
towards left, it goes to B and if it is displaced towards right, it goes to
D. Hence C is the position of unstable equilibrium. Similarly it can be
shown that E is also a position of unstable equilibrium.
Solution 2 : (i) No, (ii) No.
Solution 3 : Yes
Solution 4: x = Acos(t+)
Solution 5: No. Phase is unique in a cycle.
Solution 6 : (a) Yes, When the particle is moving from equilibrium position to
extreme position.
v
y
(b) Yes, When the particle is moving from extreme to equilibrium
position.
v
a
(c) No, as in SHM, displacement is always opposite to acceleration.
Solution 7: (a) Time period is independent of the amplitude

(b) Vmax = A  Maximum velocity doubles on doubling the
amplitude
(c) amax = 2A  Maximum acceleration also doubles on doubling the
amplitude.
(d) Total energy E = ½ m2A2  A2 i.e.E becomes four times on
doubling the amplitude.


Solution 8: 2

g  v4 r2
2

L
Solution 9: (a) g' = g + q E/m  T = 2 qE
g
m
L
g2  (qE / m)2  T  2
2
(b) g' =  qE 
g2   
m
Solution 10 : The time period first increases, reaches a maximum and then
decreases.
Solution 11 : T = 2 To
Solution 12: eq = I/m
RSM79-PH-P3-SHM-21
13. Solved Problems
13.1 Subjective
Problem 1 : A particle moves along X- axis according to the equation x = A cos  t. Find
the distance that the particle covers during the time interval t = 0 to t = t.
Solution : Since we know the particle covers the distance equal to its amplitude in
one fourth of its time period so if we write
T
t= n + t0 where t0 < T/4
4
The distance can be written as s = nA + s1
Where s1 is the distance travelled in time t0 . If n is odd then the particle
nT
will be in its mean position after time t = , if n is even then the particle
4
will be in extreme position. So we should consider both the cases
separately.
Case I : When n is odd

s = nA + s1 and s1 = A sin t0
nT
s1 =Asin  (t - )
4
n
So s1 = Asin (t - ) (think why s1 is taken as A sin t0
2
n
So s = nA + A sin (t - )
2
n
s = A { n + sin (t - )}
2
Case II : When n is even then s = nA + s2 , where s2 =A -A cost0
n
where s2 = A – A cos (t - )
2
n
therefore, s = nA + A – A cos (t - )
2
n
s = { n + 1 – cos (t - )}A
2
hence in general
   n  
A n  1  cos t  , where n is even
   2 
s= 
A n  sin t  n where n is odd.
   
   2 
RSM79-PH-P3-SHM-22
Problem 2 : At the ends of three successive seconds the distance of a point moving
with S.H.M. from its mean position, measured in the same direction are 1
m, 5m and 5m. Find the period of complete oscillation.
Solution : We know that x = A sin t
1 = A sin t . . . (1)
5 = A sin (t + 1) = A sin (t + ) . . . (2)
5 = A sin  (t + 2) = A sin (t + 2) . . . (3)
From equation (2) and (3) we have
5 = A sin t cos  + A cos t sin  . . . (4)
and 5 = A sin t cos2 + A cos t sin 2 . . . (5)
substitute the value of A sin t in last two equation.
cos  + A cos t si n = 5 . . . (6)
cos 2 + A cos t sin 2 = 5 . . . (7)
 sin 2 cos + A cos t sin  sin 2 = 5 sin 2 . . . (8)
sin  cos 2 + A cos t sin 2 sin = 5 sin  . . . (9)
subtract eq. (9) form eq. (8)
sin 2 cos   cos 2 sin  = 5 sin 2 - 5 sin 
sin  = 5 sin 2  5 sin 
6 sin  = 10 sin  cos
6 3
cos  =   = cos1  
10 5
2
T= 1
cos (3 / 5)
Problem 3 : Find the frequency of small oscillation O
of a thin uniform vertical rod of mass

'm' and length  pivoted at the point O l
as shown in the figure. The combined

stiffness of the springs is equal to k.
The mass of the spring is negligible.
Solution : Let the bar be rotated through a small angle . The restoring torque of
the forces mg, k1x and k2x about O can be given as

 = [ mg sin   k1 x (  cos ) + k2 x (  cos )]
2

  =  [ (k1 + k2)  x cos + mg sin ]
2
since,  is small sin   , x =   & cos   1
RSM79-PH-P3-SHM-23
putting k1 + k2 = k we obtain

2 
 =  k  mg   l/2
  2 
 2 
 I   k  mg 
 2 
 k2  mg(  / 2) 
 osc =  
 (m2 / 3)  mg
  k1x k2x
3k 3g
  . x
m 2
Problem 4: A thin rod of length L and area of cross section S is pivoted at its lowest
point P inside a stationary, homogeneous and non viscous liquid. The rod
is free to rotate in a vertical plane about a horizontal axis passing through
P. The density d1 of the rod is smaller than the density d 2 of the liquid. The
rod is displaced by a small angle  from its equilibrium position and then
released. Show that the motion of the rod is simple harmonic and
determine its angular frequency in terms of the given parameters.
Solution : If the rod is displaced through an angle U S

 from its equilibrium position i.e.,
vertical position then it will be under the d1
thrust U and its own weight mg. There 
G
will be a net torque, which will try to L
restore the rod to its equilibrium d2

position.
Weight of the rod acting downward mg
P
mg = SLd1g
Buoyant force acting upwards
U = SLd2g
Net force acting on the rod in the upward direction.
= SL (d2 – d1) g
Where the area of cross-section of the rod is S
L
Net restoring torque  = SL (d2 – d1) g x sin 
2
L
 = SL (d2 – d1) g x  ( sin  = )
2
If  is in clockwise direction, then  will be in anticlockwise direction. Thus
1
=– SL2 (d2 – d1) g
2
 ML2  d 2   SLd1 x L2  d 2 
 = I  =     
3  dt 2  3  dt 2
   
d2  3 1
 2
 3
x SL2  d2  d1  g
dt SL d1 2
RSM79-PH-P3-SHM-24
d2 3g  d2  d1 
or 2
   
dt 2L  d1 
This is the equation of angular S.H.M.
for which the angular frequency  is given by
3g  d 2  d1 
2 =  
2L  d1 
3g  d 2  d1 
The angular frequency  =  
2L  d1 
2 2L  d1 
Therefore time period T = = 2  
 3g  d 2  d1 
Problem 5 : Find the period of small 
oscillation of the bob of mass m /2
m
as shown in the figure. Mass of
the rod is m. k
Solution : When the rod is horizontal, let

x0 be the extension in the
spring. Hence for equilibrium

mg = kx0/2
2
Or mg = kx0

Let the bob be given a small displacement  = x. So that the total
2
energy of the system remains conserved and
1 1 1
k( x  x 0 )2 + I2  mv 2  mgx = constant . . . (i)
2 2 2
mg  
Substituting x0 = ,x= , v = 
x 2 2
1 1 m 2 2 1 2
k( x 2  x 02 ) + .  + m 2 = constant
2 2 12 2 4
Differentiating w.r.t. time t,
dx 1 d m2 d
kx  m2 2  .2 =0
dt 24 dt 8 dt
  m2 d m2 d
or k .    =0
2 2 12 dt  dt
Rearranging the terms

d  3k 
  
dt  4m 
RSM79-PH-P3-SHM-25
Thus angular acceleration  - angular displacement which represents

angular SHM and the corresponding time period.
4m
T = 2 .
3k
Problem 6: A uniform plank of length  and mass 

m is balanced on a fixed semi-circular
plate of radius R as shown in the figure. R
If the plank is tilted slightly from its
equilibrium position, and released,
prove that it will execute S.H.M. find the
period of its oscillation.
Solution : The net torque acting on the bar about P when it is tilted through a small
distance x (corresponding angle ) is given as
 =  mg x cos 
2
 IP osc mgx
x
m 2 2 R
  osc  mgR  
mg
12
cos   1 for small  & x = R P
for small .
12gR
 osc =
2
2 2 
 T=   12gR

3gR
.
Problem 7: A light rod of length  pivoted at O O

is connected with two springs of
stiffness k1 & k2 at a distance of a k1 a
&  from the pivot respectively. A
block of mass m attached with the 
spring k2 is kept on a smooth
horizontal surface. Find the k2
m
angular frequency of small
oscillation of the block m.
Solution: Let the block be pulled towards

right (fig. -a) through a distance
k1
x given as, 
x = xB + xcB . . .. (i)
where, xcB = displacement of c B C
(the block) relative to B
F XB F
x
Thus xCB = . . . .(ii)
k2
RSM79-PH-P3-SHM-26
 F  
& xB =   . . . . (iii)
 1a
K
F & F can be related by taking the moment of these forces about O, that
yields 0 = Fa – F
d2 
 I0  Fa  F ; Since
dt 2 F 
the rod is light its M.I I0 xA
about O is equal to zero F F
B
 F = F(/a) .. (iv) xB
x
Using (iii) & (iv)
2
F  
 xB =   . . . . (v)
k1  a 
2
F   F
Using (i), (ii) & (v)  x=   
k1  a  k2
k1k 2
 F= x
k 2   / a  k1
2
k 1k 2
 m2x = x
k 2   / a  k1
2
k 1k 2a 2
 = .
m(k 1a 2  k 22 )
Problem 8: Two identical balls A and B each of mass 0.1kg are attached to two
identical massless springs. The spring - mass system is constrained to
move inside a rigid smooth pipe bent in the form of a circle as shown in the
figure. The pipe is fixed in a horizontal plane. The centres of the balls can
move in a circle of radius 0.06. Each spring has a natural length of 0.06  m
and force constant 0.1 N/m. Initially, both the balls are displaced by an
angle  =  /6 radian with respect to diameter PQ of the circle and released
from rest.
(a) Calculate the frequency of oscillation of
the ball B.
m m
(b) What is the total energy of the system? /6 /6
P Q
(c) Find the speed of ball A when both A
and B are at the two ends of the
diameter PQ.
Solution : (a) At any moment when angular displacement of the balls from
equilibrium is , total energy of the system is given by
RSM79-PH-P3-SHM-27
1  1
mv 2   2. k  2R   mv 2  4KR 22
2
E = 2. 
2  2
dE
 E = constant, hence 0
dt
dv d dv  d 
 0 = 2mv  8KR 2 . = mv  4KR R
dt dt dt  dt 
d
putting R = x, and Rv
dt
dv d2 x 4K
0 = mv  4kxv   x
dt dt 2
m
m m 1 1
Hence T = 2 =  ; Hence, f =  Hz
4k k T 
(b) Since one spring is compressed while the other is stretched by the
same amount, therefore,
1 1
E  k 1x 2  k 2 x 2  kx 2 [k1 = k2 = k]
2 2
x = x1 + x2 = R1 + R2 = 2R [1 = 2 = ]
 x = 2(0.06)(/6) = 0.02 m
Thus , E = (0.1)(0.02)2 = 42  10-5 J
(c) Since at P and Q both the springs are relaxed so whole energy
becomes kinetic.
1 1
 m1v 12  m2 v 22  mv 2  E  42  10  5 or (0.1)v2 = 42  10-5
2 2
v = 2  10-2 m/s.
Problem 9: Two bodies of mass m1 & m2 are joined at the upper & m1
lower end of a light vertical rod pivoted at O, at a a

distance a & b from the pivot respectively. (a) If the O
rod is tilted through a small angle & released find the
b
angular frequency of oscillation of the system. (b) If
the rod is pivoted at its mid point find the frequency
of oscillation ( = length of the rod). m2
Solution : (a) when the rod is tilted through a small angle &
a
is released, the net torque acting on it about
x1 O
O
is given as, 
 = m2 g x2 – m1 gx1 b 
d2  m1g
 I0 = m 2 g(b sin ) – m 1 g (a sin )
dt 2 m2
(m1a2 + m2b2) ( osc )  (m2b – m1a)g
2
 x2
(sin    for  very small ) m2g
(m2b  m1a)g
 osc =
m2b2  m1a2
RSM79-PH-P3-SHM-28
(b) If the rod is pivoted at its mid point, put a = b = /2

2(m2  m1 )g
 osc = .
(m2  m1 )
Problem 10: Two non-viscous, incompressible and

immisible liquids of densities  and 1.5  are
poured into the two limbs of a circular tube of
radius R and small cross-section kept fixed in
a vertical plane as shown in figure. Each O
liquid occupies one fourth the circumference

of the tube.
If the whole liquid is given a small displacement from its equilibrium
position, show that the resulting oscillations are simple harmonic. Find the
time period of these oscillations.
Solution: The pressure due to liquid on left limb (at bottom)
P1 = (R  R Sin ) 1.5 g . . . (1)
B
B
  B
O O
 A

A y A
The pressure due to liquid on right limb

P2 = (R Sin  + R Cos) g + (R  R Cos) 1.5g . . .(2)
In equilibrium, P1 = P2
Which gives, tan  = 0.2, i.e.  = 11.3°
When the liquid is given a small angular displacement , the pressure
difference
dP = P1 – P2
= [R Sin(+) + R Cos(+)] g + [R-R Cos(+)] 1.5g –[R-R Sin (+)]
1.5g
When  is small, Sin  = , Cos  = 1
dp = Rg [2.5 Sin  + 2.5 Cos .   0.5 Cos  + 0.5 Sin .]
0. 2 1
tan  = 0.2, Sin  = and cos  =
1.04 1.04
dP = 2.55 Rg  =2.55g y (as R = y)
Restoring force F = dP x area = -2.55 gy A
2 R 2 r
Mass of the liquid in tube m = A  A  1 .5 
4 4
= 1.25 RA
F 2.55 gy A
Hence acceleration a = m   1.25 RA
 g 
a = -2.04  y
 R 
RSM79-PH-P3-SHM-29
a = -2 y
 g 
Hence, = 2.04  
 R 
2
Time period, T =  2 .5 R sec


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2. From Periodic Motion to SHM

3.1 Meaning of Equilibrium

A rigid body is said to be in equilibrium only when it simultaneously confirms translational

3.2 Stable, Unstable and Neutral Equilibrium

3.3 Stable, Unstable and neutral equilibrium in terms of potential energy

4. Stable Equilibrium And Oscillation

5. SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION

5.4 SHM in terms of Potential Energy

Illustration 1: The linear displacement (x) of a particle varies with time as

6. Analytical Treatment to SHM

Exercise 4: Find x as a function of time for v =  c   2 x 2

Equation (9) has three constants namely A,  and .

Solution: We have, y2 = 5[sin(3t)+3cos(3t)]

Illustration 3: Find the phase of the motion in an SHM for x = A/2.

6.5 The constant 

6.6 Equations of SHM

Some important notes

7.1 Kinetic Energy (KE)

From definition of kinetic energy, K = 1 mv

7.2 Potential Energy (PE)

the frequency of SHM

7.4 Average value of P.E. and K.E.

The average value of P.E. for complete cycle is given by

Exercise 7: The amplitude of an SHM is doubled. Find the corresponding change in

Illustration 5: A particle executes SHM.

8. SHM as a projection of circular motion

Let a particle be moving uniformly on a circle of radius A with angular speed .

A heavy point mass (bob), suspended by a light, long and O

9.2 Simple Pendulum in Non-inertial Frame

2. Time period of the pendulum inside an elevator accelerating in upward

9.3 Simple Pendulum when Length of the Pendulum is Comparable to

Solution: At earth’s surface the value of time period is given by

10. Oscillation of a mass attached to a spring

10.1 Mass spring system when spring is horizontal

If y is a small extension or compression in the spring

10.2 Mass spring system when spring is vertical

The weight Mg of the body produces an initial elongation, such that

10.3 SHM of a particle under uniform spring with a mass

Illustration 7: The spring mass system is shown in the figure.

(c) In equilibrium position acceleration = 0

(d) Initial velocity = 0 (given)

(f) At one extreme position

(g) At the given position x = A/2 = 0.03 m

Illustration 8: For the arrangement shown in m = 1kg

Solution: (a) Velocity of the block just before collision,

(b) In the case of spring – mass

11. Physical Pendulum

12. Solution to the Exercise

Solution 7: (a) Time period is independent of the amplitude

doubling the amplitude.

13. Solved Problems

Case I : When n is odd

Problem 3 : Find the frequency of small oscillation O

of a thin uniform vertical rod of mass

as shown in the figure. The combined

Solution : If the rod is displaced through an angle U S

restore the rod to its equilibrium d2

Solution : When the rod is horizontal, let

Rearranging the terms

Thus angular acceleration  - angular displacement which represents

Problem 6: A uniform plank of length  and mass 

Problem 7: A light rod of length  pivoted at O O