Simple harmonic motion: NECO Physics Past Questions and Answers

What the WAEC syllabus covers in Simple harmonic motion

Our summary: To-and-fro motion such as a pendulum or spring, its period, energy and resonance.

• Illustration, explanation and definition of simple harmonic motion (S.H.M.) (Use of a loaded test-tube oscillating vertically in a liquid, simple pendulum, spiral spring and bifilar suspension to demonstrate simple harmonic motion.)
• Speed and acceleration of S.H.M. (Relate linear and angular speeds, linear and angular accelerations.)
• Period, frequency and amplitude of a body executing S.H.M. (Experimental determination of 'g' with the simple pendulum and helical spring. The theory of the principles should be treated but derivation of the formula for 'g' is not required.)
• Energy of S.H.M.
• Forced vibration and resonance (Simple problems may be set on simple harmonic motion. Mathematical proof of simple harmonic motion in respect of spiral spring, bifilar suspension and loaded test-tube is not required.)

Syllabus content © The West African Examinations Council (WASSCE (harmonised West African syllabus)). NECO questions are matched to the WAEC syllabus topic.