Energy changes during simple harmonic motion (SHM)

4.2.1 Describe the interchange between kinetic energy and potential energy during SHM.

In a SHM motion the total energy is interchanged between kinetic energy and potential energy. If no resistive forced acts on the motion the total energy is constant and is said to be undamped.

Potential energy increases as we move away from the equilibrium position and kinetic energy decreases. As we come closer to the equilibrium position its vice versa. EP can be expressed as a sine curve, EK as a cosine curve.

4.2.2 Apply the expressions EK=½mω2(x02-x2) for kinetic energy of a particle undergoing SHM, ET=½mω2x02 for the total energy and EP=½mω2x2 for the potential energy.

4.2.3 Solve problems, both graphically and by calculation, involving energy changes during SHM.