A particle oscillating in simple harmonic motion is:
A)never in equilibrium because it is in motion
B)never in equilibrium because there is a force
C)in equilibrium at the ends of its path because its velocity is zero there
D)in equilibrium at the center of its path because the acceleration is zero there
E)in equilibrium at the ends of its path because the acceleration is zero there

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In simple harmonic motion, the particle reaches its maximum displacement at the ends of its path, where its velocity is zero. However, it is not in equilibrium at these points because there is a net force acting on it. The particle is actually in equilibrium at the center of its path, where the acceleration is zero.

A Particle Oscillating in Simple Harmonic Motion Is