In simple harmonic motion, the position of the oscillator
A) is out of phase with its acceleration by a half cycle, or π radians
B) is out of phase with its velocity by a half cycle, or π radians
C) is in phase with its acceleration
D) is in phase with its velocity

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In simple harmonic motion, the position of the oscillator and its acceleration are indeed out of phase by a half cycle, or π radians. This is because acceleration is directed towards the mean position and is proportional to the displacement from it, but in the opposite direction.

In Simple Harmonic Motion, the Position of the Oscillator