In simple harmonic motion, what is the phase difference between displacement and acceleration?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. pi radians (180 degrees)
- Step 1: If displacement is x(t) = Acos(omegat), acceleration is a(t) = -omega^2 Acos(omegat). Step 2. Using trigonometry, -cos(theta) = cos(theta - pi), showing a phase difference of pi radians. Answer: pi radians (180 degrees). Why not the others:* Velocity leads displacement by pi/2 radians, while acceleration is exactly out of phase (pi).
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