Doubling only the amplitude of a vibrating mass-and-spring system produces what effect on the system's mechanical energy?
A) increases the energy by a factor of square root of two
B) increases the energy by a factor of two
C) increases the energy by a factor of three
D) increases the energy by a factor of four
E) produces no change

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The mechanical energy of a mass-and-spring system is directly proportional to the square of the amplitude. Doubling the amplitude therefore results in an increase in mechanical energy by a factor of 4 (2^2).

Doubling Only the Amplitude of a Vibrating Mass-And-Spring System Produces