3 6 1 3-SHM-Systems

Colonel Frank Seely School
3.6.1.3 SHM Systems

Q1. (a) Describe the energy changes that take place as the bob of a simple pendulum
makes one complete oscillation, starting at its maximum displacement.
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(2)
(b)
Figure 1
Figure 1 shows a young girl swinging on a garden swing. You may assume that the
swing behaves as a simple pendulum. Ignore the mass of chains supporting the
seat throughout this question, and assume that the effect of air resistance is
negligible.
15 complete oscillations of the swing took 42s.
(i) Calculate the distance from the top of the chains to the centre of mass of the
girl and seat. Express your answer to an appropriate number of significant
figures.
answer = .......................... m
(4)
(ii) To set her swinging, the girl and seat were displaced from equilibrium and
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released from rest. This initial displacement of the girl raised the centre of
mass of the girl and seat 250 mm above its lowest position. If the mass of the
girl was 18 kg, what was her kinetic energy as she first passed through this
lowest point?
answer = ............................ J
(2)
(iii) Calculate the maximum speed of the girl during the first oscillation.
answer = ..................... m s–1

(1)
(c)
Figure 2
On Figure 2 draw a graph to show how the kinetic energy of the girl varied with time
during the first complete oscillation, starting at the time of her release from
maximum displacement. On the horizontal axis of the graph, T represents the period
of the swing. You do not need to show any values on the vertical axis.
(3)
(Total 12 marks)
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Q2. Figure 1 shows a seismometer used for detecting the horizontal movement of the
ground caused by an earthquake.
Figure 1
The rigid case is fixed to the ground. When an earthquake occurs, the ground moves
horizontally so the rigid case also moves horizontally. Initially, the heavy pendulum bob
remains in its original position due to its high inertia. Figure 1 shows the pendulum
immediately after an earthquake is detected.
The rotating drum moves at a steady speed. Figure 2 shows the trace produced on the
graph paper that is attached to the rotating drum following the earthquake.
Figure 2
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(a) (i) State whether the ground has moved towards A or B to produce the situation
shown in Figure 1.
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(1)
(ii) Determine the magnitude of the initial displacement of the ground that caused
the trace in Figure 2.
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(1)
(b) (i) Use data from Figure 2 to calculate the distance between the point of
suspension of the pendulum and the centre of mass of the bob. Assume that
the arrangement is a simple pendulum.
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distance ................................................................... m
(3)
(ii) State and explain the effect of using a bob of the same radius but smaller
mass on the initial displacement of the bob,
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the period of oscillation of the bob.
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(4)
(c) (i) Determine whether the amplitude of the oscillations shown in Figure 2
decreases exponentially.
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(3)
(ii) Explain why the amplitude of the oscillations of the bob decreases following
the initial displacement.
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(2)
(iii) State and explain the effect of using a bob with the same radius but smaller
mass on the time taken for the bob to come to rest following the initial
disturbance.
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(2)
(Total 16 marks)
Q3. A small negatively charged sphere is suspended from a fine glass spring between
parallel horizontal metal plates, as shown in the figure below.
(a) Initially the plates are uncharged. When switch S is set to position X, a high voltage
dc supply is connected across the plates. This causes the sphere to move vertically
upwards so that eventually it comes to rest 18 mm higher than its original position.
(i) State the direction of the electric field between the plates.
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(1)
(ii) The spring constant of the glass spring is 0.24 N m . Show that the force –1
exerted on the sphere by the electric field is 4.3 × 10 N. –3
(1)
(iii) The pd applied across the plates is 5.0 kV. If the charge on the sphere is
–4.1 × 10 C, determine the separation of the plates.
–8
answer = ..................................... m
(3)
(b) Switch S is now moved to position Y.
(i) State and explain the effect of this on the electric field between the plates.
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(2)
(ii) With reference to the forces acting on the sphere, explain why it starts to move
with simple harmonic motion.
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(3)
(Total 10 marks)
Q4.Figure 1 shows one cycle of the displacement-time graphs for two mass-spring systems X
and Y that are performing simple harmonic motion.
Figure 1
(a) (i) Determine the frequency of the oscillations.

(2)
(ii) The springs used in oscillators X and Y have the same spring constant. Using
information from Figure 1, show that the mass used in oscillator Y is equal to
that in oscillator X.
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(2)
(iii) Explain briefly how would you use one of the graphs in Figure 1 to confirm that
the motion is simple harmonic
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(2)
(b) Figure 2 shows how the potential energy of oscillator X varies with displacement.
Figure 2
(i) Draw on Figure 2 a graph to show how the kinetic energy of the mass used in
oscillator X varies with its displacement. Label this A.
(1)
(ii) Draw on Figure 2 a graph to show how the kinetic energy of the mass used in
oscillator Y varies with its displacement. Label this B.
(2)
(c) Use data from the graphs to determine the spring constant of the springs used.
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(3)
(Total 12 marks)
Q5. (a) A spring, which hangs from a fixed support, extends by 40 mm when a mass of
0.25 kg is suspended from it.
(i) Calculate the spring constant of the spring.
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(ii) An additional mass of 0.44 kg is then placed on the spring and the system is
set into vertical oscillation. Show that the oscillation frequency is 1.5 Hz.
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(4)
(b) With both masses still in place, the spring is now suspended from a horizontal
support rod that can be made to oscillate vertically, as shown in the figure below,
with amplitude 30 mm at several different frequencies.
Describe fully, with reference to amplitude, frequency and phase, the motion of the
masses suspended from the spring in each of the following cases.
(i) The support rod oscillates at a frequency of 0.2 Hz.
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(ii) The support rod oscillates at a frequency of 1.5 Hz.
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(iii) The support rod oscillates at a frequency of 10 Hz.
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(6)
(Total 10 marks)
Q6. (a) A body is moving with simple harmonic motion. State two conditions that must
be satisfied concerning the acceleration of the body.
condition 1 ....................................................................................................
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condition 2 …..........................……...............................................................
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(2)
(b) A mass is suspended from a vertical spring and the system is allowed to come to
rest.
When the mass is now pulled down a distance of 76 mm and released, the time
taken for 25 oscillations is 23 s.
Calculate
(i) the frequency of the oscillations,
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(ii) the maximum acceleration of the mass,
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(iii) the displacement of the mass from its rest position 0.60 s after being released.
State the direction of this displacement.
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(6)
(c)
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Figure 1
Figure 1 shows qualitatively how the velocity of the mass varies with time over the
first two cycles after release.
(i) Using the axes in Figure 2, sketch a graph to show qualitatively how the
displacement of the mass varies with time during the same time interval.
Figure 2
(ii) Using the axes in Figure 3, sketch a graph to show qualitatively how the
potential energy of the mass-spring system varies with time during the same
time interval.
Figure 3
(4)
(Total 12 marks)
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Q7.Figure 1 shows an apparatus for investigating forced vibrations and resonance of a mass-
spring system. Figure 2 shows the displacement-time graph when the system is
resonating.
Figure 1 Figure 2
(a) (i) State what is meant by a forced vibration.
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(1)
(ii) Under what condition will resonance occur in the system shown in Figure 1?
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(1)
(b) The spring constant of the spring used in the experiment was 9.0 N m–1. Using
information from Figure 2, determine the value of the mass suspended from the
spring.
(3)
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(c) When the rotating wheel stops, Figure 3 shows how the amplitude of the oscillations
of the mass subsequently varies with time.
Figure 3
(i) Explain whether the graph supports the suggestion that the amplitude of the
damped oscillations varies exponentially with time. Show your reasoning
clearly.
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(3)
(ii) Determine the ratio:
(2)
(Total 10 marks)
Q8.(a) Figure 1 and 2 show a simple version of a sensor designed to measure acceleration.
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In Figure 1, which shows the sensor at rest, a mass, M, is held centrally between
two identical springs. When the sensor is fixed to a body which is accelerating
parallel to the dashed line AB the mass takes up a position to the right of centre, as
shown by Figure 2.
Figure 1
Figure 2
State the direction in which the body is accelerating and explain your answer.
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(2)
(b)
Figure 3
In practice, the mass in the sensor is connected to the slider, R, of a wire-wound

potential divider across which there is a fixed potential difference of 5.0 V. At rest
the slider is positioned midway along the uniform track of the potential divider.
When accelerating, the slider moves a distance of 8.0 mm to the right of centre, as
shown in Figure 3.
Calculate the change in potential difference between the points PR which result from
this movement.
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(4)
(c) On such devices, the sensor compartment is filled with oil and a hole is drilled in the
mass to allow passage of oil between the two spring compartments. Explain why the
oil is present.
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(2)
(Total 8 marks)
Q9.
Figure 1 Figure 2
(a) When a 200 g mass is suspended from a spring, as in Figure 1, it produces an

extension of 3.5 cm. Calculate the spring constant, k, for this spring.
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(2)
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(b) A spring identical to that in part (a) is joined to the lower end of the original one and
a 500 g mass is suspended from the combination, as shown in Figure 2.
(i) State the value of the new spring constant for this combination of two springs.
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(ii) When the 500 g mass is displaced it performs small vertical oscillations.
Calculate the number of oscillations made in one minute.
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(3)
(Total 5 marks)
Q10. The International Space Station (ISS) moves in a circular orbit around the Earth at a
speed of 7.68 km s and at a height of 380 km above the Earth‘s surface.
–1
(a) Calculate the centripetal acceleration of the ISS, given that the radius of the Earth is
6380 km.
(3)
(b) Explain why a scientist working on board the ISS experiences “apparent
weightlessness”.
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(2)
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This state of apparent weightlessness makes the space station an ideal laboratory for
experiments in “zero gravity” conditions. Examples are the study of lattice vibrations in
solids and Brownian Motion in fluids.
(c) The figure below shows a mass-spring system which, in zero gravity, provides a
good model of forces acting on an atom in a solid lattice.
When the mass is displaced and released it oscillates as shown. The motion is very
similar to the motion in one dimension of an atom in a crystalline solid. The springs
behave like the bonds between adjacent atoms.
(i) The mass in the model system is 2.0 kg and it oscillates with a period of 1.2 s.
Show that the stiffness of the spring system is about 55 N m .
–1
(2)
(ii) The bonds between the atoms in a particular solid have the same stiffness as
the model system and the mass of the oscillating atom is 4.7 ×10 kg.
–26
Calculate the frequency of oscillation of the atom.
(2)
(Total 9 marks)
Q11.A spring, which obeys Hooke’s law, hangs vertically from a fixed support and requires a
force of 2.0 N to produce an extension of 50 mm. A mass of 0.50 kg is attached to the
lower end of the spring. The mass is pulled down a distance of 20 mm from the
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equilibrium position and then released.
(a) (i) Show that the time period of the simple harmonic vibrations is 0.70 s.
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(ii) Sketch the displacement of the mass against time, starting from the moment of
release and continuing for two oscillations. Show appropriate time and
distance scales on the axes.
(5)
(b) The mass-spring system described in part (a) is attached to a support which can be
made to vibrate vertically with a small amplitude. Describe the motion of the mass-
spring system with reference to frequency and amplitude when the support is driven
at a frequency of
(i) 0.5 Hz,
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(ii) 1.4 Hz.
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(3)
(Total 8 marks)
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Q12. A girl sits at rest on a garden swing. The swing consists of a wooden seat of mass
1.2 kg supported by two ropes. The mass of the girl is 16.8 kg. The mass of the ropes
should be ignored throughout this question.
Figure 1
(a) A boy grips the seat and gives a firm push with both hands so that the girl swings
upwards as shown in Figure 1. The swing just reaches a vertical height of 0.50 m
above its rest position.
(i) Show that the maximum gain in gravitational potential energy of the girl and
the swing is about 88 J.
acceleration due to gravity = 9.8 m s –2
(3)
(ii) The work done against resistive forces as the swing moves upwards is 20 J.
Calculate the work done on the swing by the boy during the push.
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(1)
(iii) As he pushed, the boy‘s hands were in contact with the seat of the swing for a
distance of 0.40 m. Calculate the average force applied to the swing.
(2)
(b) Calculate the speed of the girl as she passes back through the lowest point of her
ride for the first time. Assume that the work done against resistive forces is the same
in both directions.
(4)
(c) The girl is not pushed again. On the axes in Figure 2, sketch a graph to show how
the kinetic energy of the girl varies with time over two complete cycles of the motion.
Start your graph from the time when she is 0.50 m above the rest position. You are
not required to mark a scale on either axis.
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Figure 2
(3)
(Total 13 marks)
Q13. The figure below shows how the displacement of the bob of a simple pendulum
varies with time.
(a) (i) Calculate the frequency of the oscillation.
(ii) State the magnitude of the amplitude of the oscillation.
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(iii) State how the frequency and amplitude of a simple pendulum are affected by
increased damping.
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(5)
(b) Draw on the figure above the displacement-time graph for a pendulum that has the
same period and amplitude but oscillates 90° (π/2 radian) out of phase with the one
shown.
(2)
(c) The pendulum bob has a mass of 8.0 × 10 kg. Calculate –3
(i) the maximum acceleration of the bob during the oscillation,
(ii) the total energy of the oscillations.
(5)
(Total 12 marks)
Q14. Figure 1 shows a spring loaded with a mass of 0.15 kg. When the mass is displaced
vertically it oscillates up and down. A and C show the extreme positions of the mass and
B is its equilibrium position.
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Figure 1
(a) The 0.15 kg mass extends the spring by 0.040 m. Calculate the elastic potential
energy stored in the spring when it is extended by this amount.
gravitational field strength, g = 9.8 N kg –1
Elastic potential energy = ..................................

(2)
(b) (i) Mark and label on the diagram the amplitude of the motion.
(1)
(ii) Describe the energy changes that occur during one cycle when the mass is
pulled down to position C and then released. You should consider the motion
to be undamped during this cycle.
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(2)
(Total 5 marks)
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Q15. (a) The equation that describes simple harmonic motion is
a = –ω x. 2
State the meaning of the symbol  in this equation and go on to explain the
significance of the negative sign.
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(2)
(b) Figure 1a shows a demonstration used in teaching simple harmonic motion. A

sphere rotates in a horizontal plane on a turntable. A lamp produces a shadow of
the sphere. This shadow moves with approximate simple harmonic motion on the
vertical screen.
Figure 1a Figure 1b
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(i) The turntable has a radius of 0.13 m and the teacher wishes the time taken for
one cycle of the motion to be 2.2 s. The mass of the sphere is 0.050 kg.
Calculate the magnitude of the horizontal force acting on the sphere.
(2)
(ii) State the direction in which the force acts.
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(1)
(c) Figure 1b shows how the demonstration might be extended. A simple pendulum is
mounted above the turntable so that the shadows of the sphere and the pendulum
bob can be seen to move in a similar way and with the same period.
(i) Calculate the required length of the pendulum.
acceleration due to gravity = 9.8 m s –2
(1)
(ii) Calculate the maximum acceleration of the pendulum bob when its motion has
an amplitude of 0.13 m.
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(2)
(d) Figure 2 includes a graph of displacement against time for the pendulum. Sketch,
on the axes below, graphs of
(i) acceleration against time for the bob, and
(ii) kinetic energy against time for the bob.
Figure 2
(4)
(Total 12 marks)
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Q16. The diagram below shows a simple accelerometer designed to measure the
centripetal acceleration of a car going round a bend following a circular path.
The two ends A and B are fixed to the car. The mass M is free to move between the two
springs.
The needle attached to the mass moves along a scale to indicate the acceleration.
In one instant a car travels round a bend of radius 24 m in the direction shown in the
diagram above. The speed of the car is 45 km h . –1
(a) State and explain the direction in which the pointer moves from its equilibrium
position.
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(3)
(b) (i) Calculate the acceleration that would be recorded by the accelerometer.
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(2)
(ii) The mass M between the springs in the accelerometer is 0.35 kg. A test shows
that a force of 0.75 N moves the pointer 27 mm.
Calculate the displacement of the needle from the equilibrium position when
the car is travelling with the acceleration in part (i).
(2)
(c) When the car leaves the bend the accelerometer eventually returns to its zero
reading after a few cycles of damped simple harmonic motion.
(i) Calculate the period of the oscillation of the mass M.
(3)
(ii) Sketch, on the axes below, a graph showing how the displacement of the
mass varies with time from the instant the car leaves the bend. Include
appropriate values on the axes of your graph.
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(2)
(Total 12 marks)
Q17.(a) Simple harmonic motion may be represented by the equation
a = – (2πf) x 2
(i) Explain the significance of the minus sign in this equation.
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(1)
(ii) In Figure 1 sketch the corresponding v-t graph to show how the phase of
velocity v relates to that of the acceleration a.
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(1)
(b) (i) A mass of 24 kg is attached to the end of a spring of spring constant 60 N m .

–1
The mass is displaced 0.035 m vertically from its equilibrium position and
released. Show that the maximum kinetic energy of the mass is about 40 mJ.
(5)
(ii) When the mass on the spring is quite heavily damped its amplitude halves by
the end of each complete cycle. On the grid of Figure 2 sketch a graph to
show how the kinetic energy, E , of the mass on the spring varies with time
k
over a single period. Start at time, t = 0, with your maximum kinetic energy.
You should include suitable values on each of your scales.
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(3)
(Total 10 marks)
Q18. The diagram below shows a way to measure the mass of a lorry. The vehicle and its
contents are driven onto a platform mounted on a spring. The platform is then made to
oscillate vertically and the mass is found from a measurement of the natural frequency of
oscillation.
(a) (i) State whether the period of oscillation increases, decreases or remains
unchanged when the amplitude of oscillation of the platform is reduced.
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(1)
(ii) The spring constant k of the supporting spring is increased to four times its
original value.
State the value of the ratio .
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(1)
(iii) The time period of oscillation is T when a lorry is on the platform. The spring
constant of the spring is k. Show that the total mass M of lorry and platform is
given by
(2)
(iv) A lorry and its contents have a total mass of 5300 kg. The spring constant of
the supporting spring k is 1.9 × 10 N m . The frequency of oscillation of the
5 –1
platform with the lorry resting on it is 0.91 Hz.
Calculate the mass of the platform.
(3)
(b) The graph below shows how the displacement of the platform varies with time over
one cycle. Sketch on the axes provided graphs of velocity against time and kinetic
energy against time for the motion of the platform.
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(5)
(c) The driver is required to turn off the vehicle engine whilst the measurement is taking
place.
The driver of the lorry in part (a)(iv) fails to do this and slowly increases the
frequency of vibration of his vehicle from 0.5 Hz to about 4 Hz whilst the
measurement is in progress and the platform is free to move. Describe and explain
how the amplitude and frequency of the platform vary as this frequency increase
occurs. You should use a sketch graph to support your answer.
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(4)
(Total 16 marks)
Q19.Figure 1 shows a mass suspended on a spring.
Figure 1
The mass is pulled down by a distance A below the equilibrium position and then released
at time t = 0. It undergoes simple harmonic motion.
(a) Taking upward displacements as being positive, draw graphs on Figure 2 to show
the variation of displacement, velocity and the acceleration with time. Use the same
time scale for each of the three graphs.
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Figure 2
(4)
(b) The spring stiffness, k, is 32 N m–1. The spring is loaded with a mass of 0.45 kg.
Calculate the frequency of the oscillation.
(3)
(Total 7 marks)
Q20.Figure 1 shows three stages during the oscillations of a loaded spring. The positions
shown are when the mass attached to the spring is at the top, equilibrium (middle)
position and bottom of its motion.
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Figure 1
(a) (i) Describe what is meant by the period of this oscillation.
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(1)
(ii) Mark and label the amplitude of the oscillation on Figure 1.

(1)
(b) Explain how you would determine an accurate value for the period of the oscillation.
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(2)
(c) The mass is displaced from its equilibrium position in the air and then released. The
graph in Figure 2 shows the displacement-time graph from the moment of release.
The mass-spring system is then submerged in water and set oscillating with the
same initial displacement.
Sketch on the same set of axes the displacement-time graph for the motion in the
water.
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Figure 2
(2)
(Total 6 marks)
Q21.The diagram below shows a crane moving a heavy load of mass 1.5 × 103 kg. The mass of
the cable is negligible compared with the mass of the load. When the jib moves round and
then stops the load swings and behaves like a simple pendulum, undergoing free
oscillations. The oscillation has an amplitude of 5.0 m and period of 8.0 s.
the acceleration of free fall, g = 9.8 m s–2
(a) (i) Explain briefly the difference between a free and a forced oscillation.
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(2)
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(ii) Calculate the length of the cable.

(2)
(iii) Determine the maximum acceleration of the load as it swings.

(3)
(iv) Calculate the force on the load that produces this acceleration.
(2)
(b) The total energy of the oscillating load is approximately 12 kJ.
Sketch a graph showing how the kinetic energy of the load varies with time during
one cycle of oscillation. Start your graph at a time when the displacement of the load
from the equilibrium position is a maximum. Include appropriate scales on the axes
of your graph.
(2)
(Total 11 marks)
Q22.(a) State the conditions necessary for a body to execute simple harmonic motion.
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(2)
(b) The front wheel of a motorcycle is attached to the frame via a combination of
springs which has a spring constant of 4.2 × 103 N m–1. You may consider this
suspension system to be undamped. Figure 1 shows the variation of displacement
with time for the system when it is caused to oscillate after the wheel passes over a
bump in the road.
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Figure 1
(i) State the periodic time for the oscillation of the system.
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(1)
(ii) Calculate the frequency of oscillation of the system.

(1)
(iii) Calculate the effective mass which is attached to the suspension system.
(2)
(iv) Calculate the maximum acceleration of the wheel relative to the frame when
the system oscillates as shown in Figure 1.
(2)
(c) When approaching a roundabout at a speed of 7.0 m s–1, the motorcycle moves over
raised road markings separated by a distance of 1.2 m. By making a suitable
calculation, decide whether the front wheel system of the motorcycle is likely to
experience resonance when it crosses the road markings. Explain your answer.
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(3)
(d) In practice, the system is damped by a shock absorber. Figure 2 shows the
oscillation of the damped system after the wheel goes over a bump in the road.
Figure 2
(i) Describe the energy changes that occur during the time covered by Figure 2,
making reference to the types of energy involved at P, Q and R.
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(3)
(ii) Use the graph to estimate the fraction of the energy absorbed by the shock
absorbers by the time t.
(3)
(Total 17 marks)
Page 42
M1. (a) (grav) potential energy → kinetic energy → (grav) potential energy
→ kinetic energy → gravitational potential energy (1)
energy lost to surroundings in overcoming air resistance (1)

2
(b) (i) period T = = 2.8 s (1)
use of T = 2π gives length l = (1)
giving distance from pt of support to c of m, l = 1.9 (m)

or 1.95 (m) (1)
answer must be to 2 or 3 sf only (1)

4
(ii) E = mgΔh stated or used (1)

k
gives E of girl at lowest point = 18 × 9.81 × 0.25 = 44 (J) (1)

k
(iii) ½ mv = 44.1 gives max speed of girl v =

2
= 2.2 (m s ) (1)
–1
[alternatively: A = (3.9 – 0.25) × 0.25 gives A = 0.955 (m)

2
and v = 2π f A = (2π/2.8) × 0.955 = 2.1 (m s ) (1)]

max
–1
(c) graph drawn on Figure 2 which:
shows E = 0 at t = 0, T/2 and T (1)

k
has 2 maxima of similar size (some attenuation allowed)

at T/4 and 3T/4 (1)
is of the correct general shape (1)

3
[12]
Page 43
M2. (a) (i) toward B
B1
1
(ii) 15 × 0.20 = 3 mm
B1
1
(b) (i) period = 0.8 s
C1
use of T = 2π√L/g
C1
0.16 (0.159) m
A1
3
(ii) lower initial displacement
B1
lower inertia/more likely to begin moving as

the Earth moves
B1
no effect
B1
period of a simple pendulum is independent of the

mass of the bob/mass of bob is not in the formula
for the period of a simple pendulum/period only
depends on length (and g)
B1
4
Page 44
(c) (i) clearly states consistency of ratios of successive

amplitudes as the
test
B1
one ratio of successive amplitudes correctly

determined
B1
two ratios correctly determined and conclusion
B1
3
(ii) the oscillations are damped/air resistance

mentioned/friction of pen against paper
B1
energy is lost because of air resistance/work is

done against air resistance/energy lost moving
air out of the way/giving air kinetic energy
B1
2
(iii) it will come to rest quicker
M1
the bob loses a greater proportion of its energy

during each oscillation
A1
2
or pendulum has lower inertia so damping force has

greater effect
or oscillating pendulum (initially) has less energy
or air resistance (initially) is unchanged

[16]
Page 45
M3. (a) (i) (vertically) downwards [or top to bottom, or down the page] (1)
1
(ii) force on sphere F (= kx) = 0.24 × 18 × 10 (1) (= 4.32 × 10 N)

−3 −3
(iii) use of F = EQ gives E = (1) (= 1.05 × 10 V m )

5 −1
use of E = gives separation d = (1)
= 4.8 × 10 (m) (1) (4.76 × 10 )

−2 −2
(b) (i) electric field becomes zero (or ceases to exist) (1)
flow of charge (or electrons) from one plate to the other

[or plates discharge] (1)
(until) pd across plates becomes zero [or no pd across plates,

or plates at same potential] (1)
max 2
(ii) net downward force on sphere (when E becomes zero)

[or gravitational force acts on sphere, or force is weight] (1)
this force extends spring (1)
force (or acceleration) is proportional to (change in)

extension of spring (1)
acceleration is in opposite direction to displacement
(or towards equilibrium) (1)
for shm, acceleration (−) displacement

[or for shm, force (−) displacement] (1)
max 3
[10]
Page 46
M4.(a) (i) period = 1.2 s or T = l / f

C1
0.83 Hz or 0.833
A1
(2)
(ii) period / frequency is the same or T1 = T2

B1
since T depends on – or T = 2π and k is constant

(2)
(iii) waveform sinusoidal or fits x = A sin ωt (accept cos waveform)

M1
A after 1 / 8 cycle should be A /
or find ω (= 2πf) and A; calculate x at any time and compare

A1
or use gradients to plot v–t then a–t graphs

M1
check whether for all t is constant

A1
(2)
(b) (i) correct curvature with values at ends and centre correct and crossing at
0.08 ± 1 small square both sides
B1
(1)
(ii) correct curvature

M0
end displacements correct (1 / 2 that for X i.e. 0.1)

A1
maximum correct (1 / 4 that for X i.e. 0.04 ± 1 small square)

A1
(2)
Page 47
(c) reads maximum energy and displacement correctly 0.16 J and 0.20 m (allow
e.c.f. for (b)(i) and (b)(ii))
C1
quotes E = k∆χ2 or E = Fx and F= kx

C1
correct substitution leading to a value for k (8.0 N m–1)

A1
or maximum speed of oscillator X = ωA

(using maximum gradient ≈ 0.2 / 0.15 or 27πfA (1.04 m s–1))
C1
mass of oscillator from Em = ½mv2 gives 0.189 kg

(v = 1.04 gives 0.296 kg)
C1
T = 2π leading to a value for k(k = 5.2 N m–1)
(v = 1.04 gives 8.1 N m–1)

A1
(discrepancy due to difficulty of measuring gradient)

(3)
[12]
M5. (a) (i) mg = ke (1)
= 61(.3) N m (1)
−1
(1) (= 0.667 s)
(ii) (1)(= 1.50 Hz)

4
(b) (i) forced vibrations (at 0.2 Hz) (1)

amplitude less than resonance (≈ 30 mm) (1)
Page 48
(almost) in phase with driver (1)
(ii) resonance [or oscillates at 1.5 Hz] (1)

amplitude very large (> 30 mm) (1)
oscillations may appear violent (1)
phase difference is 90º (1)
(iii) forced vibrations (at 10 Hz) (1)

small amplitude (1)
out of phase with driver [or phase lag of
(almost) π on driver] (1)
Max 6
[10]
M6. (a) acceleration is proportional to displacement (1)

acceleration is in opposite direction to displacement, or
towards a fixed point, or towards the centre of oscillation (1)
2
(b) (i) f= = 1.1 Hz (or s ) (1) –1

(1.09 Hz)
(ii) (use of a = (2πf) A gives)

2
a = (2π × 1.09) × 76 × 10 (1)

2 –3
= 3.6 m s (1)
–2
(3.56 m s ) –2
(use of f = 1.1 Hz gives a = 3.63 m s ) –2
(allow C.E. for incorrect value of f from (i))
(iii) (use of x = A cos(2πft) gives)

x = 76 × 10 cos(2π × 1.09 × 0.60) (1)
–3
= (–)4.3(1) × 10 m (1) –2
(43 mm)
(use of f = 1.1 Hz gives
x = (–)4.0(7) × 10 m (41 mm))
–2
direction: above equilibrium position or upwards (1)

6
Page 49
(c) (i) graph to show:
correct shape, i.e. cos curve (1)
correct phase i.e. –(cos) (1)
(ii) graph to show:

two cycles per oscillation (1)
correct shape (even if phase is wrong) (1)
correct starting point (i.e. full amplitude) (1)
max 4
[12]
M7.(a) (i) system made to oscillate by a periodic external force / energy source
or system made to oscillate by another oscillator it is connected to
or another oscillator forcing the system to vibrate
or an oscillator forcing another oscillator to vibrate
due to its own vibrations
A1
(1)
not made to oscillate by an external force

not when its vibrations are not at its natural frequency
not when it is made to oscillate by another system
(ii) frequency of wheel (motor)= natural frequency of system

condone ‘fundamental or resonant frequency‘ of the system
or rotating wheel rotates at the resonant / fundamental
frequency of the system
must be reference to the wheel or motor or driver oscillator

not just when it vibrates at its natural frequency
B1
(3)
(b) T = 1.25 s
B1
T = 2π(m / k) or numerical substitution

1/2
C1
0.36 kg
allow e.c.f. for T; 0.6 s gives 0.82 kg
A1
(1)
Page 50
(c) (i) correct process using ratios
(eg times to halve marked on the graph)
B1
three amplitudes read correctly

or
two times to halve read correctly
B1
ratios determined and conclusion drawn that it is exponential

or
a clear statement that the time to halve is the same for points indicated
and
conclusion that it is exponential
B1
(3)
(ii) amplitude correct for 25 s , i.e. 4 to 4.2 cm

or energy proportional to A2 (allow 0.5 kA2 or 0.5 kx2)
C1
allow e.c.f. from (b); T = 0.6 s leads to amplitude = 6.8 cm ; ratio = 0.46
0.16-0.19 or 17/100 (2 s.f. only)

A1
(3)
[10]
M8.(a) accelerating to left (1)

net force to left on M due to compression on right and tension on left (1)/p>
(2)
(b) slider is at 33/50 of length (1)

(uniform track so) resistance ∝ length (1)
V= × 5.0 (V) (1) = 3.3 V (1)
ΔV = +0.8V (1)
(max 4)
(c) damping (1)

to prevent (reduce) oscillation of mass (during changes in motion) (1)
(2)
[8]
Page 51
M9.(a) use of mg = ke gives k = (1)
= 56 N m (1) [or kg s ]
–1 –2
(b) (i) 28 (N m ) (1) (unit to be given in either (a) or (b))

–1
(allow C.E. from (a))
(ii) (use of T = 2π gives) T = 2π = 0.84 (s) (1)
(allow C.E. for value of k from (b)(i))
number of oscillations per minute = = 71 (1)
(allow C.E. from (b)(ii))

3
[5]
M10. (a) a = v /r
2
C1
= (7.68 × 10 ) /(6.760 × 10 ) or r = 6380 + 380

3 2 6
C1
= 8.73 m s –2
A1
3
(b) (the scientist is in) free-fall (owtte)
B1
his/her weight provides the centripetal force
B1
Page 52
(to maintain) the same orbit/same radius and velocity/same
acceleration (as the ISS)
B1
his/her body experiences no motion/force relative to the ISS
B1
max 2
(c) (i) k = 4π m/T or T = 2π(m/k) and inferred transposition

2 2 1/2
B1
= 4 × (3.142) × 2.0/ (1.2)

2 2
(= 54.8)
B1
2
(ii) use of T = 2π(m/k) and f = 1/T

1/2
C1
f = 5.4 × 10 Hz12
A1
2
[9]
M11.(a) (i)
(ii)
Page 53
a correct (= 20mm) (1)
x = ±20 mm at t = 0 (1)
T correct (= 0.70 s)(1)

(5)
(b) (i) vibrates at 0.5 Hz with low amplitude (1)
(ii) vibrates with high amplitude (1)

at natural frequency (1)
resonates (1)
(max 3)
[8]
M12. (a) (i) ∆E = mg∆h
B1
= (16.8+1.2)9.8 × 0.5 or a mass × 9.8 × 0.5
B1
= 88.2 (J)
B1
3
(ii) 108 J or answer to (a) (i) + 20 J
B1
1
Page 54
(iii) 108/0.40 allow ecf from (ii) (i.e. their (ii)/0.40)
C1
270 N {68/.4 = 170}
A1
2
(b) gain in KE = loss in PE - work done
C1
= 88-20 = 68
C1
KE = ½ mv 2
C1
v = 2.7(5) m s no ecf
–1
A1
4
(c)
graph starts at origin and forms a full rounded peak
B1
exactly two cycles (4 peaks) shown but not arches
B1
height of peaks decreases and peaks approximately equally
Page 55
spaced
B1
3
[13]
M13. (a) (i) period = 1.8 or 1.9 s or f = 1/T
C1
0.56 (0.556)Hz or 0.53 (0.526) s if T = 1.9 s
A1
(ii) 0.074 – 0.078 m
B1
5
(iii) frequency remains constant
B1
amplitude reduces
B1
(b) attempt shows understanding of π/2 phase difference
(lag or lead)
M1
constant phase difference and amplitude
(acceptable quality)
A1
2
(c) (i) maximum acceleration = ω A or ω = 2πf

2
C1
Page 56
0.91(3) m s or 0.83 if T = 1.9 s
−2
(ecf from (a) (i)) and (a) (ii))
(not allowed if period given as answer in (i))
A1
(ii) (maximum) speed = ωA (0.267 m s ) −1
C1
use of KE = ½ mv with at least m (= 8 × 10 )

2 −3
substituted
C1
(2.5 to 3.0) × 10 J −4
A1
5
or
maximum restoring force = 8.0 × 10 × 0.91

−3
C1
oscillator energy = ½ × F × A or
0.5 × 8.0 × 10 × 0.91 × 0.075
−3
C1
(2.5 to 3.0) × 10 J −4
rA1
[12]
M14. (a) ½ Fx or ½ kx 2
C1
29.4 mJ
Page 57
A1
2
(b) (i) amplitude clearly marked on diagram - must touch

lines or be an accurately drawn equivalent distance
B1
1
(ii) idea of interchange of p.e. and k.e.
B1
appropriate use of elastic p.e. at start of cycle and of

gravitational p.e. highest point + some k.e. in between.
B1
2
[5]
M15. (a) 2π/T or 2πf or angular speed/velocity/frequency/Δθ ÷ Δt with

symbols defined
B1
displacement direction opposite to acceleration vector/

acceleration towards central point/equilibrium point
B1
2
(b) (i) ω = 2π/T = 2.86 rad/s can appear as (2π/2.2) in
C1
subst
F = 0.053(1) N
A1
2
(ii) to centre of turntable/rotation/circle not ‘towards

centre’
Page 58
B1
1
(c) (i) l = [T g/4π ] = 1.20 m

2 2
A1
1
(ii) correct use of a = ω A

2
M1
or accel = v /r or F/m approach

2
a = 1.0 / 1.1 / 1.04 / 1.06 m s [cao]

–2
A1
2
(d) a origin at zero
C1
a in antiphase
A1
k.e always positive and start at maximum
C1
k.e. twice f and good shape
A1
4
[12]
M16. (a) force is needed toward the centre or there is acceleration

toward the centre
B1
movement to the left/toward A/away from the centre

(or indicated on diagram)
Page 59
M1
right hand spring (attached to B) has to stretch to

provide force
A1
3
(b) (i) acceleration = v /r or speed = 12.5 m s

2 –1
or a = r ω and v = rω or ω = 0.52 rad s or 45 /0.024

2 –1 2
C1
6.5 m s 8.4 × 10 km h unit essential

–2 4 –2
A1
2
(ii) Force on mass = 0.35 × (i) (2.28 N if correct)

or use of F = mrω (0.35 × 24 × 0.52 )
2 2
C1
0.82mm or 0.83 mm if (i) is correct;

Movement = 12.6 × (i) mm
A1
2
(c) (i) T = 2π or a = (2πf) A or f = 1.4Hz or

2
ω = 8.9 rad s –1
C1
k = 27.8 N m use of T = 1/f or 2π/ω

–1
C1
0.71 s (allow 0.70 s to 0.72 s)
A1
3
(ii) sketch showing amplitude reducing with time

starting at max ignore changing period
Page 60
B1
labelled consistently with answers to (b)(ii) and (c)(i).

(0.71 s and initial displacement 82 mm)
condone only one period shown correctly
B1
2
[12]
M17.(a) (i) acceleration (not a) and displacement (not x) are in

opposite directions OR restoring force/acceleration
always acts toward rest position
B1
1
(ii) (+) sine curve consistent with a graph
B1
1
(b) (i) statement that E = E K P
B1
statement of max values considered
B1
E = ½ k(Δl) or E
P
2
Pmax = ½ kA 2
B1
correctly substituted values
B1
E = 3.7 × 10 J
K
–2
B1
OR
f = 1/T or T = 3.97 s or period equation
B1
Page 61
leading to f = 0.252 Hz
B1
ωmax = 1.58 rad s or v = 0.055ms (seen or used)

–1
max
–1
B1
substituted values into E = ½mA or E = ½mv

K
2ω2
K
2
B1
E = 3.7 × 10 J
K
–2
B1
5
(ii) any attenuation from t = 0 seen
M1
10 mJ or E /4 at either 4s or third hump

0
M1
consistent period values minima at 1 and 3s

maxima at 0 and 4s
A1
3
[10]
M18. (a) (i) Unchanged
B1
1
(ii) ½ OWTTE
B1
1
(iii) T = 2π√ (M/k)
B1
T = 4π × M/k (square and re-arrange)

2 2
B1
2
(iv) T = 1/0.91 [= 1.1 s]

Page 62
C1
1.1 × 190000 /4π

2 2
A1
So m = (cand ans for M –5300) leading to

platform
correctly evaluated answer
B1
3
(b) v shape correct [cos graph]
B2
or v shape inverted [-cos graph]
B1
k.e. always +ve
M1
k.e. freq doubles
M1
k.e. shape acceptable
A1
5
(c) max 4 from:

mention of forced oscillation
platform frequency always matches lorry’s frequency
mention of resonance
small amplitude when well away from resonant frequency
large amplitude at resonance [do not infer small amp
point from this] resonant freq close to 0.91 Hz
B4
4
[16]
Page 63
M19.(a) displacement negative cosine
B1
velocity consistent with first graph

B1
acceleration consistent with first or second graph

B1
at least one cycle, constant amplitude (condone small decay ), include A for
displacement, reasonably drafted
B1
(b) use of T = 2π i.e. substituted values or 0.74 seen

C1
use or implied use of T =

C1
1.34 Hz
A1
[7]
M20.(a) period time for one complete oscillation

B1
amplitude maximum displacement from undisturbed

(equilibrium) position
B1
(2)
(b) clear description + repeat at least 10 times overall + averaging process

B1
beginning or end measurement at equilibrium / use of datalogger

(explicit) / fiducial mark
B1
(2)
(c) same time period

B1
significant and gradual reduction in amplitude compared to original

B1
(2)
Page 64
[6]
M21.(a) (i) free oscillation:
there is no force acting other than internal forces
or only internal forces are involved or there are no external forces acting
or no energy input (following initial displacement)
do not allow a free oscillation is not forced to oscillate

B1
forced oscillation:
oscillator is acted on by a periodic external force

(condone acted on by external varying force)
or energy is given periodically by an external source
or made to oscillate at the frequency of another oscillator

B1
(2)
(ii) T = 2π√(l / g) or 8 = 2π√(l / 9.8)

C1
15.9 (16) m
A1
(2)
(iii) a(max) = ω2 A (not x, s or r)

C1
ω = 2πf or 2π / T or π / 4 or 0.785 (0.79) (radian s ) –1
C1
3.08 – 3.12 m s–2

A1
(3)
(iv) F = ma or F = 1.5 × 10 × (iii)

3
C1
4 600 N to 4700 N ( but allow e.c.f. for a from (iii))

A1
(2)
Page 65
(b) graph showing two cycles of energy change in a time of 8 s;

peak at 12 kJ; shape always positive
M1
approx. sin2 shape; clearly curved at each zero value
(condone any extension beyond 8 s)

A1
(2)
[11]
M22.(a) force / acceleration proportional to displacement /

distance from mean position
B1
directed towards mean / fixed position
B1
(2)
(b) (i) 0.96 s to 0.98 s

B1
(1)
(ii) 1.02 Hz to 1.04 Hz e.c.f. 1 / (i)

B1
(1)
(iii) T = 2π√m / k or m = T k / 4π in symbols or numbers, seen or used

2 2
C1
98 kg to 102 kg e.c.f. 106 × (i)2
A1
(2)
(iv) a = (–)ω A
2
C1
1.03 m s–2 to 1.07 m s–2 e.c.f. 0.99(ii)2
A1
(2)
Page 66
(c) time period (of oscillation caused by road markings) = s / v or 1.2 / 7 or 0.17 s
C1
frequency = 1 / T or 5.8 Hz
(use of v = fλ loses both of the 1st two marks)
A1
applied frequency / time period is different from natural / resonant frequency
so no resonance
B1
(3)
(d) (i) KE at P
B1
PE at Q
B1
at R, (nearly all of) energy absorbed by shock absorber / dissipated as
internal energy (condone heat) in shock absorber / surroundings
(allow lost in damping)
B1
(3)
(ii) energy proportional to (amplitude)2

C1
at P, A = 2.5;
at t, A = 1.0 or 0.9
C1
5.3 / 6.3 = 0.84 of energy absorbed at t (or 0.90, consistent with value of
A at t)
A1
(3)
[17]
Page 67
E1. In part (a), the award of the full two marks was comparatively rare. Most answers were
incomplete because candidates had not addressed the need to describe the energy
changes of the bob ‘over one complete oscillation, starting at its maximum displacement’.
A large proportion of candidates confined their attention to the first half of the oscillation,
which limited them to half marks. Another error was a reluctance to refer to the potential
energy as gravitational. Some candidates missed the point of the question completely,
and wrote about velocity and acceleration in shm.
Calculation of the period of the swing in part (b) (i) was straightforward, and proved to be
rewarding for most candidates. Those who confused period with frequency gained little
credit, except for the mark for giving a final answer to an appropriate number of significant
figures. Using the given data, the answer for the length was 1.948 m, when calculated to
four significant figures. Final answers of 2.0 m (rather than 1.9 m) were therefore regarded
as incorrect.
The solution to part (b) (ii), where the maximum E of the girl was needed, came readily
k
from ‘E gained = gravitational E lost’. Equating this result to ½ m v then led to a neat
k p
2
solution to part (b) (iii), to find the maximum speed of the girl. Many candidates attempted
much more tortuous routes to parts (ii) and/or (iii), using vmax = 2 πfA. The principal
downfall of this method (quite apart from its relative difficulty) was the adoption of 250 mm
for the amplitude, A. Some successful solutions by the method were seen, however,
where the correct value for A had been found by Pythagoras, or some equivalent
calculation.
Many reasonable graphs were drawn in part (c), where the E against t graph was
-
required, starting at maximum displacement. The majority of answers recognised that E -
would be zero at t = 0, T/2 and T. On most answers there were also correct maxima, of
similar amplitude, within one square of T/4 and 3T/4 on the graph. The most demanding
aspect was the shape of the graph; ‘half wave rectified’ waveforms tended to dominate,
whilst triangular waveforms were by no means uncommon. Correct (sin ) shapes were
2
comparatively rare, but credit was given for any shape which showed appropriately curved
characteristics.
E2. 80% of the candidates correctly answered part (a) (i).
A similar proportion did part (a) (ii) correctly. 3 cm was a common incorrect answer and
many simply miscounted when reading the scale.
It was surprising that almost a quarter of candidates were unable to score in part (b) (i).
The most common error was to determine the incorrect period. Some confused frequency
and period and used a period of 1.25 s.
In part (b) (ii), although appreciating the lower inertia, many candidates thought this would
lead to a higher displacement. What was surprising is the number who did not appreciate
that the period of a simple pendulum is independent of the mass of the bob and is
dependent only on its length and the value of g.
Page 68
Few candidates were able to undertake a suitable test for an exponential change and the
majority gave a qualitative response to part (c) (i) along the lines the rate of change
decreases. Some thought that the peaks should fall by half each time. Others thought that
if the amplitude changed by the same amount each time it would be exponential. It was
anticipated that as an understanding of the requirement, this test would be learned and
investigated when discussing damping.
In part (c) (ii), a majority of candidates mentioned that the oscillations were damped or
that air resistance was the cause, but few went on to give any further explanation in terms
of energy or work done.
Again, for part (c) (iii), more than half appreciated that the pendulum should come to rest
in a shorter time but explanations were generally poor. Many concentrated on the
pendulum having lower momentum which, as the pendulum’s momentum changes
continually during the oscillation even when undamped, was not a sensible approach.
E3. Far fewer correct answers were seen to part (a) (i) than might have been expected.
Deducing the correct direction for the electric field involved spotting that the electrostatic
force on the sphere acted upwards, and that the sphere carried a negative charge. The
vast majority of answers to part (a) (ii) showed that students had not forgotten Hooke’s
law from Unit 2 of AS Physics; 0.24 × 0.018 readily gave 4.32 × 10 N. Part (a) (iii) was
–3
also well answered, either by combining F = EQ and E = V/d before inserting numbers, or
by working out E, and then d, separately.
Attempts to answer both sections of part (b) showed that many candidates had little
understanding of what would happen when switch S was moved to position Y. The fact
that the immediate effect would be to short out the plates, causing them to discharge and
therefore reduce the field strength to zero, escaped a very large number of candidates.
Common answers to part (b) (i) were that the field was reversed, or that the field became
an alternating one. Answers which suggested that an electric force would still be acting
received no further credit in part (b) (ii). What was required here was an understanding
that, when the field was removed, the sphere would fall under its own weight, extending
the spring downwards. The resultant force on the sphere would be proportional to the
change in the extension of the spring, producing an acceleration that was proportional to
the displacement from equilibrium but acted in the opposite direction to the displacement
ie the condition for shm.
E4.(a) (i) Most candidates were able to determine the frequency successfully.
Page 69
(ii) There were many good answers that expressed clearly the equality of the
periods and then used the formula appropriately to explain the equality of the
masses.
(iii) Relatively few were able to say clearly how this would be done. Many
appreciated that a sinusoidal shape would indicate slun but did not go on to
say how they could show that the graphs were true sinusoidal curves. Some
simply mentioned differentiating twice but with no equation this made little
sense. A fair proportion of the candidates referred to the plotting of a velocity-
time and then an acceleration-time graph using tangents and some stated that
this should have the inverse shape of the displacement graph. Very few
however explained that the ratio of the acceleration to displacement at all
times should be equal.
(b) (i) Many graphs were drawn with little care. The peak was frequently shown at
0.15 J and there was often no evidence that the candidate appreciated that
the total energy should remain constant.
(ii) Many answers contained one of the relevant features but few candidates
managed both. The halving of the amplitude was the most common correct
feature, fewer candidates appreciating that the maximum K.E. of Y would be a
quarter that of X.
(c) There were alternative approaches to this, the simplest being the determination of
the maximum P.E. and equating this to ½ k ∆ 12. Many tried the more circuitous
route of using the formula for period. Many of these failed because they were unable
to determine the mass. This was obtainable from ½ mv2 = K.E. and the use of the
maximum velocity from the graph or from the use of 2πfA.
E5. Good progress was generally made in part (a), but the unit of the spring constant was
not always correct and often omitted. Clear and concise answers were common, usually
allowing all four marks to be awarded. The most common difficulty occurred where the
candidate thought that k = (m/e) instead of (mg/e); these candidates were then unable to
show that the frequency was 1.5 Hz.
Page 70
Part (b) caused great difficulty for a majority of candidates, many of whom seemed to
have little or no detailed knowledge concerning forced vibrations and resonance. Phase
relationships proved to be particularly demanding, although the mark scheme was
adopted and made it possible to score all six marks without referring to phase at all.
Responses were often confusing, making it difficult for examiners to decide whether the
frequencies and amplitudes referred to were those of the support rod, the spring, or (as
the question intended) the masses. More candidates ought to have realised that phase
could only be correctly described by comparing the oscillation of the masses (the driven
system) with that of the support rod (the driver). They should also know that phase is
measured by an angle, not a wavelength. There were many references to the frequencies
and amplitudes of waves, and even to interference. Perhaps the rather simple
demonstration that formed the basis of this question should receive greater prominence
when teaching the characteristics of vibrations.
E6. The conditions expected in answers to part (a) were those embodied in the definition
of shm: acceleration is proportional to displacement, but acts in the opposite direction (or
towards a fixed point / towards equilibrium position). Other features of the acceleration,
such as the fact that a is a maximum when v = 0, were not given any credit.
In part (b) frequency was often confused with period; of itself this was only penalised
once, leaving five marks available. Part (b) (iii) caused problems for many candidates,
mainly because they did not realise that 2πft is an angle measured in radians rather than
degrees. Several candidates confused acceleration a and amplitude A, leading to the
incorrect substitution x = 3.56 cos (2π × 1.09 × 0.60). Another prevalent wrong answer
was 49 or 50 mm, apparently arrived at by calculating (0.60/0.92) × 76 mm, i.e. (t/T) × A.
The direction of displacement when t = 0.60s could be arrived at heuristically, without
resort to the result of the previous calculation; the direction mark was therefore regarded
as independent.
Many very good answers were seen for the graphs in part (c). Common errors were a cos
graph (rather than – cos) in (i), and the wrong shape of E curve – even when it had been
p
appreciated that there are two energy cycles per oscillation – in (ii).
E7.(a) (i) It was necessary to state that the force producing the oscillations has to be a periodic force.
Many candidates stated only that an external force was needed. Some stated explicitly
that applying a force and then releasing it so that oscillations took place would be a forced
oscillation.
(ii) Many candidates gave a general statement of the condition (i.e. external
Page 71
frequency equal to the natural frequency). This was accepted but an answer
that actually referred to the context in which the question was set was
preferred. Simply stating that the oscillating body oscillated at its natural or
resonant frequency was inadequate.
(b) Careless reading of data from the graph led to many incorrect answers but most
candidates used the correct equation.
(c) (i) The communication of the process used to test for the exponential was often
not clear. Some candidates simply stated that there was a constant ‘half life’
without showing any evidence of data having been taken from the graph. This
was the preferred method of most candidates; checking for a constant ratio for
other time periods was rare. Some candidates thought that exponential meant
that the amplitude would be inversely proportional to the time. Weaker
candidates thought it adequate to say that the graph never touches the time
axis or that the gradient of the graph decreases as time increases.
(ii) Candidates could gain credit either for obtaining the correct amplitude after 20
oscillations or for knowing that energy of an oscillator is proportional to the
amplitude squared. Those who gained one of the two marks usually gained it
for the first of these. Only a small proportion of the candidates obtained both
marks. Some of those who could have gained full marks spoiled their answer
by the use of too many significant figures.
E9.The main failing in part (a) was thinking that k is mass per unit extension rather than force
per unit extension. Some candidates also used g = 10 N kg–1, rather than the value of 9.81
N kg–1 given in the Data Sheet and which should always be used unless candidates are
instructed to the contrary by the question. Choosing the correct unit for k was a recurring
problem.
In part (b)(i) many candidates doubled the value of k determined in part (a) and thus
appeared to think that the two springs in series would be twice as hard to extend as a
single spring. More thorough understanding would indicate that the same force must
produce double the extension when pulling on a specimen that is twice as long, so k must
halve. The incorrect value of k was allowed as a consequential error in part (ii) and the
equation for the period was normally applied successfully, but when converting to
oscillations per minute, the period was sometimes wrongly multiplied by 60.
Page 72
E10. This question was another which discriminated well over the full range of abilities.
(a) Most candidates gained all three marks here. The most common error by those that
did not was to neglect to add the height of the orbit to the radius of the Earth.
(b) Usually, it was only the very best candidates who scored here. Sadly the most
common error was a statement to the effect that the ISS was outside of the Earth’s
gravity field or that the acceleration due to gravity was too small to notice. The latter
often followed a calculation in part (a) that effectively calculated the same
acceleration to be 8.7 ms .
–2
(c) The two calculations were usually done well with the occasional significant figure
and/or unit error.
E11.Part (a) was done well by the majority of candidates. Although some omitted the units on
the graph axes, the only error of significance was to start the graph from the displacement
origin.
The quality of answers given to part (b) varied widely. A small minority of candidates gave
excellent and concise answers which showed a clear understanding of amplitude, natural
frequency and resonance. Unfortunately, most answers were so badly expressed that it
was difficult to award marks.
E12. This question discriminated well, with nearly every candidate being able to achieve
some marks and the more able scoring well. A few candidates achieved full marks.
(a) (i) This part was generally done well, but some candidates lost a mark by not
Page 73
clearly stating the formula they were using.
(ii) This part was less well answered. Common errors included 20 J being
subtracted rather than added, and the answer being quoted to 4 significant
figures. Also a surprising number of candidates were unable to add 88 to 20
successfully.
(iii) Most candidates gained both marks for this part, albeit, in some cases, with
an error carried forward from part (ii).
(b) Only those candidates who read the question carefully accounted for the work done
against friction on the downward swing.
(c) Most curves were sufficiently well drawn to gain at least two of the three marks. A
common error was to draw arches rather than sine curves or to show only two peaks
instead of four. The decreasing height of the peaks was well known.
E13. Most candidates scored well in this question, the majority gaining more than half the
available marks.
(a) (i) Most candidates completed this successfully but some lost marks for
misreading scales, rounding off inappropriately, omitting a unit or giving the
answer to too many significant figures.
(ii) Those losing marks usually misread the scale or omitted a unit.
(iii) This was usually successfully completed.
(b) (i) The majority knew how to determine the maximum acceleration.
(ii) The majority determined this using the KE formula but many were unable to
determine the maximum velocity or, having found it, forgot to square it when
doing the calculation. A small minority, inappropriately, used mgh.
Page 74
E14. (a) Use of p.e. = mgh was common here but the majority of candidates did use
½kx or ½Fx to calculate the correct elastic potential energy. A significant minority of
2
candidates were penalised for quoting the answer to a single significant figure
(0.03J).
(b) (i) Although most candidates appeared to be able to distinguish the amplitude
from twice its value, many failed to gain this mark be marking a vague
distance that clearly was not equivalent to the distance between two adjacent
arrow lines.
(ii) Too often candidates were vague regarding use of the terms elastic potential
energy and gravitational potential energy – calling them both “potential
energy”. Other candidates made no mention of the conversion between
potential energy and kinetic energy. A few weaker candidates made no
mention of energy at all – simply writing about the period of oscillation and
damping.
E15. (a) Many candidates were able to state the meaning of ω clearly, usually in terms
of angular velocity or speed and this gained full credit. A definition in terms of
angular frequency, or 2πf or 2πT with symbols defined, would have been preferable
however. Descriptions of the significance of the negative signs were much poorer
with many ambiguous statements produced that involved vague references to ‘the
centre’ with no statement of the centre of what.
(b) (i) The magnitude of the horizontal force was well calculated by many, but some
could not progress beyond a calculation of the angular frequency.
(ii) Again, far too many candidates simply stated the direction of the force as
being towards the centre without being clear about what they mean by this.
Page 75
(c) (i) Almost all managed the simple task of calculating the required length of the
pendulum from a formula provided on the data sheet.
(ii) This calculation was also well managed by almost all.
(d) (i) There were many good answers showing the correct starting position and
correct phase for the acceleration–time graph. Most incorrect responses failed
to gain any marks indicating that the candidate probably had little
understanding of the relationship between displacement and acceleration in
harmonic motion.
(ii) Completely correct drawings for the kinetic energy case were much more
uncommon. There was a widespread failure to recognise the doubling of the
frequency in the energy variation and the quality of the sketches was
consistently poor. Examiners could not determine whether this was due to
candidates failing to understand that kinetic energy varies sinusoidally or
whether the candidates simply could not draw. There were many good quality
but incorrect sketches showing cycloidal behaviour (rather than sinusoidal).
E16. (a) Most candidates appreciated that a force was needed toward the centre when
there was circular motion but many went on to suggest that this force moved the
mass toward the centre (toward B). Relatively few made any reference to the way in
which the difference in tensions of the two springs provided the necessary force.
(b) (i) There was a majority of correct answers but inability to convert from km h to
–1
m s was a problem for many and 45 /24 = 84 m s was not uncommon. Many
–1 2 –2
made life difficult by trying to use angular velocity equations.
(ii) Most candidates approached this part correctly but a significant proportion
tried, inappropriately, to use simple harmonic motion equations to solve this.
Page 76
Many completely unrealistic answers went unquestioned (up to hundreds of
kilometres!).
(c) (i) The majority of the candidates obtained correct values for the period using T =
2π . Some were unable to determine k correctly.
(ii) The majority drew a sketch that showed amplitude decreasing but fewer
included acceptable scales, many omitting scales altogether. Candidates who
failed to draw a graph that started at maximum displacement gained no marks
here.
E17.(a) (i) The clear majority of the candidates were able to explain that the minus sign
showed either that the acceleration was directed towards the equilibrium
position or else that it indicated that the acceleration and the displacement
were in opposite directions. Weaker candidates suggested that it meant that
there was always deceleration or that the acceleration was in the opposite
direction to the ‘motion’.
(iii) Most candidates recognised that the velocity would be a positive sine curve,
although other sinusoidal curves were all relatively common.
(b) (i) The two routes to solution of this part were equally common. Those
candidates opting for the ‘elastic potential energy’ version often failed to
explain that in equating the elastic potential energy to the kinetic energy, they
were using the maximum values. Those candidates calculating the kinetic
energy through the frequency or angular frequency, often missed out the
intermediate steps that a ‘show that’ equation requires. This second method
gave the period that was needed to answer part (b)(ii).
(ii) The majority of candidates found this part to be difficult, with very few scoring
all three marks. Although virtually all candidates attempting this part were
credited for showing attenuation of the signal, most did not recognise that after
one period the energy would have fallen to a quarter of the maximum value
when the amplitude fell to half its maximum value. Very few candidates drew
an accurate curve showing this.
Page 77
E18. (a) (i) All three possible answers were equally attractive to candidates with
perhaps one-third to one-half deducing that the period is unchanged when the
amplitude varies.
(ii) The incorrect answer of 2 for the ratio was very popular as were variants
featuring the ratio squared or even cubed.
(iii) There were many correct and clear solutions to this simple algebraic proof.
Only the weakest candidates failed to gain full credit.
(iv) The calculation was well done by many. Common failure points were:
forgetting to subtract the quoted mass of the lorry and forgetting to square the
oscillation period. Significant figure penalties were common.
(b) This part was poorly done by many and revealed that the phase relationships
between the various parameters in the harmonic oscillator are not understood. Many
began the speed graph at the origin for t = 0, others gave a negative starting
position here. The kinetic energy graph was worse. About one-third of candidates
realised that the curve is always positive and the same number could deduce that
the oscillation period doubles. There were very few candidates who recognised that
a sine graph when squared yields a similar sinusoidal shape (but always positive).
The majority showed the graph as a sharp point where it touches the time axis.
(c) Many were at a complete loss when it came to a clear description of the variation of
amplitude of a driven system as the driver frequency varies through the driven
natural frequency. Large numbers of descriptions contained inconsequential,
inaccurate statements. Candidates simply did not stop to think what was going on.
Creditworthy answers tended to focus on ideas of resonance and variations of
amplitude. The best candidates were able to use information from earlier in the
question to state the approximate frequency at which the largest amplitude occurs
(0.91 Hz).
E19.(a) The majority of candidates scored well here – although most candidates had a
reasonable idea of the manner in which the displacement, velocity and acceleration
graphs related to each other there were few perfect responses; many candidates
failed to appreciate that the mass was initially given a negative displacement (and
Page 78
therefore would give a negative cosine graph). Only a minority of candidates
were willing to mark the amplitude on the displacement curve as being A. The
graphs were usually acceptably well drafted.
(b) This part was generally well answered although weaker candidates often had
difficulties in inverting the equation for the period in its entirety to give a value for f.
E20.(a) (i) Although many candidates scored the mark for describing the period of an
oscillation, the level of explanation was not good with many references to
‘complete oscillations’ with no clear explanation of the true meaning of
‘complete’. It was clear to examiners that the terms period and oscillation are
by no means well understood.
(ii) Amplitude markings on the diagram were well done by many candidates.
(b) The description of the method for determining an accurate value for period elicited
half marks for many with a clear reference to the need for repeated measurements
of many oscillations, but there were only a handful of references to the need for, or
the use of, a fiducial mark. Poorer candidates often described a process of counting
oscillations for a fixed time – ignoring the inevitable problem of fractional oscillations
at the end of the time period.
(c) In the diagram candidates tended to draw either an appropriate period for the motion
of the mass or an appropriately damped amplitude but rarely both.
Page 79
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Colonel Frank Seely School

3.6.1.3 SHM Systems

answer = ..................... m s–1

the period of oscillation of the bob.

exerted on the sphere by the electric field is 4.3 × 10 N. –3

(b) Switch S is now moved to position Y.

(a) (i) Determine the frequency of the oscillations.

(i) Calculate the spring constant of the spring.

(i) The support rod oscillates at a frequency of 0.2 Hz.

(ii) The support rod oscillates at a frequency of 1.5 Hz.

(iii) The support rod oscillates at a frequency of 10 Hz.

(i) the frequency of the oscillations,

(ii) the maximum acceleration of the mass,

State the direction of this displacement.

(a) (i) State what is meant by a forced vibration.

(ii) Determine the ratio:

In practice, the mass in the sensor is connected to the slider, R, of a wire-wound

(a) When a 200 g mass is suspended from a spring, as in Figure 1, it produces an

Calculate the frequency of oscillation of the atom.

(i) 0.5 Hz,

(ii) 1.4 Hz.

acceleration due to gravity = 9.8 m s –2

(a) (i) Calculate the frequency of the oscillation.

(ii) State the magnitude of the amplitude of the oscillation.

(c) The pendulum bob has a mass of 8.0 × 10 kg. Calculate –3

(i) the maximum acceleration of the bob during the oscillation,

(ii) the total energy of the oscillations.

gravitational field strength, g = 9.8 N kg –1

Elastic potential energy = ..................................

Q15. (a) The equation that describes simple harmonic motion is

(b) Figure 1a shows a demonstration used in teaching simple harmonic motion. A

Calculate the magnitude of the horizontal force acting on the sphere.

(ii) State the direction in which the force acts.

(i) Calculate the required length of the pendulum.

acceleration due to gravity = 9.8 m s –2

(i) acceleration against time for the bob, and

(ii) kinetic energy against time for the bob.

(i) Calculate the period of the oscillation of the mass M.

Q17.(a) Simple harmonic motion may be represented by the equation

(i) Explain the significance of the minus sign in this equation.

(b) (i) A mass of 24 kg is attached to the end of a spring of spring constant 60 N m .

State the value of the ratio .

platform with the lorry resting on it is 0.91 Hz.

Calculate the mass of the platform.

Q19.Figure 1 shows a mass suspended on a spring.

(a) (i) Describe what is meant by the period of this oscillation.

(ii) Mark and label the amplitude of the oscillation on Figure 1.

the acceleration of free fall, g = 9.8 m s–2

(ii) Calculate the length of the cable.

(iii) Determine the maximum acceleration of the load as it swings.

(b) The total energy of the oscillating load is approximately 12 kJ.

(ii) Calculate the frequency of oscillation of the system.

energy lost to surroundings in overcoming air resistance (1)

(b) (i) period T = = 2.8 s (1)

use of T = 2π gives length l = (1)

giving distance from pt of support to c of m, l = 1.9 (m)

answer must be to 2 or 3 sf only (1)

(ii) E = mgΔh stated or used (1)

gives E of girl at lowest point = 18 × 9.81 × 0.25 = 44 (J) (1)