Question 9
MotionI. The motion of the tyres of a moving car.
II. The motion of a loaded test tube oscillating vertically.
III. The beating of the heart.
IV. A stone tied to a string and whirled round.
V. The motion of the pistons in a gasoline engine.
Which of the motions above is simple harmonic?
- A.III, IV and V only
- B.II, III and V only
- C.II, III and IV only
- D.I, II and III only
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: B (II, III and V only)
Explanation
A loaded test tube bobbing in water, the heartbeat and an engine piston all move to and fro about a fixed point, which is simple harmonic motion. Tyres and a whirled stone go round in circles (rotational/circular motion).