
SHM basics
a ∝ –x. Displacement, velocity, acceleration all sinusoidal but phase shifted. Period T = 2π√(m/k) for spring, 2π√(l/g) for pendulum.
Circular motion link
SHM is projection of uniform circular motion. That’s why equations involve sine/cosine.
Exam habits
- Quote definition: acceleration proportional to –displacement.
- Be clear on phase relationships in graphs.
- Energy diagrams: PE and KE interchange but total constant.