A LevelPhysicsAQARevision NotesFurther Mechanics & Thermal PhysicsSimple Harmonic MotionHarmonic Oscillators in Context

Harmonic Oscillators in Context (AQA A Level Physics)

Revision Note

Test yourself
Ashika

Author

Ashika

Last updated

Harmonic Oscillators in Context

  • Any oscillations about an equilibrium where its restoring force is proportional to its displacement will be simple harmonic

    • For example, liquid in a U-tube

U-tube SHM, downloadable AS & A Level Physics revision notes

Liquid in a U-tube is a type of simple harmonic oscillator with a displacement x from the equilibrium position and length L

T space equals space 2 pi square root of l over g end root

Worked Example

Water of length 20 cm is added to a U-tube. When added the water oscillates in simple harmonic motion in a time period T. 

q3a_oscillations_ib-sl-physics-sq-medium

Calculate the frequency of the oscillations.

Answer:

Step 1: List the known quantities

  • L = 20 cm = 0.20 m

Step 2: From the data booklet

T = 1 over f

f space equals space 2 pi square root of L over g end root

Step 3: Rearrange time period equation for the frequency

f = 1 over T

f = fraction numerator 1 over denominator 2 pi end fractionsquare root of g over L end root

Step 4: Substitute values into the frequency equation, to calculate f:

f equals space fraction numerator 1 over denominator 2 pi end fraction square root of fraction numerator 9.81 over denominator 0.20 end fraction end root

f = 1.11 Hz

Examiner Tips and Tricks

Don't let these slightly unusual situations confuse you. Try to model each part with each part against a conventional spring or pendulum system. 

You've read 0 of your 5 free revision notes this week

Sign up now. It’s free!

Join the 100,000+ Students that ❤️ Save My Exams

the (exam) results speak for themselves:

    Test yourself

    Did this page help you?

    Previous:Period of Simple PendulumNext:Energy in SHM
    Ashika

    Author: Ashika

    Expertise: Physics Project Lead

    Ashika graduated with a first-class Physics degree from Manchester University and, having worked as a software engineer, focused on Physics education, creating engaging content to help students across all levels. Now an experienced GCSE and A Level Physics and Maths tutor, Ashika helps to grow and improve our Physics resources.