The top graph represents the variation of displacement with time for a particle executing simple harmonic motion. Which curve in the bottom graph represents the variation of acceleration with time for the same particle?
A) 1
B) 2
C) 3
D) 4
E) None of these is correct.

Question

The top graph represents the variation of displacement with time for a particle executing simple harmonic motion. Which curve in the bottom graph represents the variation of acceleration with time for the same particle?
A) 1 
B) 2 
C) 3 
D) 4 
E) None of these is correct.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The acceleration of a particle executing simple harmonic motion is directly proportional to the displacement but in the opposite direction. This means that acceleration is maximum when the displacement is minimum and vice versa. In the given graph, curve 2 represents this behavior as it reaches its maximum value at the minimum displacement and vice versa.

The Top Graph Represents the Variation of Displacement with Time