AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based Flashcards: Energy of Simple Harmonic Oscillators
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 11 cards to help you master important concepts.
What two forms of energy are continuously transformed into one another during Simple Harmonic Motion?
In SHM, the system's kinetic energy and potential energy are continuously interconverted, while their sum remains constant.
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What two forms of energy are continuously transformed into one another during Simple Harmonic Motion?
In SHM, the system's kinetic energy and potential energy are continuously interconverted, while their sum remains constant.
Under what condition is the kinetic energy of an SHM system at its maximum?
The kinetic energy of a system exhibiting SHM is at a maximum when the system’s potential energy is at a minimum.
A simple pendulum passes through the lowest point of its swing. Describe its kinetic and potential energy at this point.
At the lowest point (equilibrium), potential energy is at a minimum, and therefore the kinetic energy is at its maximum.
Under what condition is the potential energy of an SHM system at its maximum?
The potential energy of a system exhibiting SHM is at a maximum when the system’s kinetic energy is at a minimum.
State the equation for the total energy of an SHM system.
The total energy is given by the equation $E_{total} = U + K$, where U is potential energy and K is kinetic energy.
An object in SHM is speeding up as it moves toward equilibrium. What is happening to its potential energy?
As the object's kinetic energy increases (it speeds up), its potential energy must decrease to keep the total energy constant.
How is the total mechanical energy of a system in Simple Harmonic Motion (SHM) composed?
The total energy of a system exhibiting SHM is the sum of the system’s kinetic energy (K) and potential energy (U).
An oscillating mass on a spring is at its maximum displacement from equilibrium. Describe its kinetic and potential energy at this point.
At maximum displacement, the kinetic energy is at its minimum (zero), and therefore the potential energy is at its maximum.
Does the total energy of an ideal simple harmonic oscillator change over time?
No, the conservation of energy indicates that the total energy of a system in SHM remains constant.
What fundamental principle applies to the total energy of a system in SHM?
The principle of conservation of energy applies, which indicates that the total energy of a system exhibiting SHM is constant.
If the total energy of an SHM system is constant, what is the relationship between changes in kinetic and potential energy?
Because total energy is conserved, any increase in kinetic energy must be met with an equal decrease in potential energy, and vice versa.