The graph below shows the displacement of an object in...

The graph below shows the displacement of an object in simple harmonic motion.
(GRAPH CANNOT COPY)
(a) What is the amplitude?
(b) What is the period?
(c) Is the equation of the simple harmonic motion of the form $d=a \sin \omega t$ or $d=a \cos \omega t ?$

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Key Concepts

Trigonometric Representation of SHM

Simple harmonic motion can be modeled using sine or cosine functions because both are periodic. The choice between using a sine or cosine function often depends on the initial conditions of the system, such as whether the motion starts at the equilibrium position or at the maximum displacement, which determines the appropriate phase shift in the equation.

Amplitude

Amplitude is the maximum displacement from the equilibrium position in a periodic motion. In the context of simple harmonic motion, it reflects the extent of the oscillation and is a measure of how far the object moves away from its center position during one half-cycle.

Period

The period is the time it takes for the oscillating object to complete one full cycle of its motion. In simple harmonic motion, the period is a key parameter that indicates the duration of one complete oscillation and is inversely related to the frequency of the motion.

Simple Harmonic Motion

Simple harmonic motion (SHM) describes a type of periodic motion where the restoring force acting on an object is directly proportional to its displacement from its equilibrium position. This type of motion is characterized by oscillations that continue in a regular, sinusoidal pattern over time.

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