Physics - EMI/AC Question with Solution | TestHub
Which of the following quantities remains constant in an ideal (undamped) simple harmonic motion but decreases over time in a damped simple harmonic motion?
Options:
Answer:
Solution:
In an ideal (undamped) simple harmonic motion, there are no dissipative forces, so the total mechanical energy (sum of kinetic and potential energy) remains constant.
In a damped simple harmonic motion, dissipative forces (like air resistance or viscosity) are present, which convert mechanical energy into other forms (e.g., heat). As a result, the total mechanical energy of the oscillating system continuously decreases over time.
The frequency of oscillation may change slightly due to damping, but the most prominent and defining characteristic of damping is the decay of energy and amplitude. The equilibrium position remains unchanged, and the phase evolves with time in both cases.
