SHM - Waves

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GURU
Vidyamandir Classes Simple Harmonic Motion
Simple Harmonic Motion
BASIC IDEAS Section - 1
Oscillatory Motion
A body is said to possess oscillatory motion if it moves back and forth repeatedly about the mean position.
For example : swinging pendulum, vibratory motion of a mass attached to a spring.
Periodic Motion
A motion which repeats itself after equal intervals of time is called a periodic motion. Each oscillatory
motion is a periodic motion. A body moving in a circle is also an example of periodic motion but it is not
oscillatory motion.
Simple Harmonic Motion

A system is said to execute simple harmonic motion if the magnitude of the forces acting on it is directly
proportional to the magnitude of its displacement from the mean position and the force is always directed
towards the mean position. For example : motion of a simple pendulum, vibrating tuning fork, loaded spring,
etc., are all S.H.M.s.
Analysis of S.H.M.
Consider a particle of mass m executing S.H.M. along X-axis with mean position at origin.
Displacement from mean position = X co-ordinate = x (t)
The force acting on the particle must be towards mean position (i.e.,opposite in sign to x) and its magnitude
must be proportional to magnitude of x
F=–kx where k is a constant.
If a is acceleration, then :
ma = – kx
d 2x k
 = – x . . . . (i)
dt 2 m
This equation is called as the differential equation of S.H.M . The general expression for x(t) satisfying the
equation is :
x (t) =A sin (t + 0) . . . . (ii)
Substituting (ii) in (i), we get :
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Simple Harmonic Motion Vidyamandir Classes
k
=
m
Amplitude
The amplitude of a particle executing S.H.M. is magnitude of its maximum displacement on either side of the
mean position. Consider the equation of S.H.M. i.e.,
x (t) = A sin (t + 0)
maximum value of sin  = 1, so – A  x  A
 A is the amplitude of the particle.
Time Period
Time period of a particle executing S.H.M. is the time taken to complete one cycle and is denoted by T.
Consider the equation of S.H.M. i.e.,
x (t) = A sin (t + 0)
If t is increased by 2/ then
  2  
x (t) = A sin   t    0 
    
x (t) = A sin (t + 2 + 0)
x (t) = A sin [2 + (t + 0)]
x (t) = A sin (t + 0)
Thus, the function x (t) repeats itself after an interval of 2/ therefore :
2
Time Period (T) =

2 m  k 
T= = 2  as   
 k  m 
Frequency
The frequency of a particle executing S.H.M. is equal to the number of oscillations completed in one sec-
ond. It is measured in cycles per second (Hertz) and is denoted by
 1 k
v= =
2 2 m
Phase
The phase of a particle executing S.H.M. at any instant is its state as regard to its position and direction of
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motion at that instant. It is measured as argument (angle) of sine in the equation of S.H.M.
x (t) = A sin (t + 0)
Phase = (t +0)
At t = 0, phase = 0 ; the constant 0 is called initial phase of the particle or phase constant.
Initial Conditions
The amplitude A and initial phase 0 are determined by the initial conditions (position and velocity at t = 0)
for the oscillating particle.
When the motion starts at t = 0, initial position is :
x (0) = A sin 0 and the initial velocity is :
v (0) = A  cos 0
For example :
If 0 = /2 then x (0) = A, v (0) = 0. Hence the particle starts moving at t = 0 from the right extreme position
(with zero speed).
Angular Frequency
The quantity  is called the angular frequency and is equal to 2 times the frequency of the particle execut-
ing S.H.M.
2 k
i.e.,  = 2 v = =
T m
Energy Consideration in S.H.M.

Consider a mass m executing simple harmonic motion given by the equation
x = A sin (t + 0)
where, A is the displacement amplitude,
 is the angular frequency and 0 is the initial phase.
1. Kinetic Energy
At any instant of time, if v is the velocity of particle, its kinetic energy (K.E.) is given by
1
K = m v2
2

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Hence,
(i) the kinetic energy varies periodically
(ii) K.E. is maximum at mean position, where velocity is maximum.
(iii) K.E. is minimum, i.e., zero at the extreme position, where velocity is zero
2. Potential Energy
The potential energy (P.E.) of the particle at time t depends on the displacement x (t). The P.E. is
given by the amount of work done to move the body from the mean position (x = 0) to x (t) by
applying a force.
The applied force must be equal and opposite to the restoring force
F=–kx
i.e. Fapplied = + k x
The work done required to produce an infinitesimal displacement dx is
dw = (Fapp) × (dx)
dw = kx dx
x 1
Total work done =  o kx dx = kx2
2
i.e. gain in P.E. = 1/2 kx2 at a distance x from mean position.
If we take P.E. = 0 at mean postion then :

U (x) = 1/2 kx2
1 2
In general, U (x) = U(0) + kx
2
3. Total Energy : (TE)

T.E. = K.E. + P.E.
T.E. = 1/2 mv2 + 1/2 kx2 + U (0)
T.E. = 1/2 mA2 2 cos2 (t + 0) + 1/2 kA2 sin2 (t + 0) + U (0)
k
Using = we get :
m

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1 2 1 2 2
T.E. =
2
mA2  k/m  cos2 (t + 0) +
2
kA sin (t +0) + U (0)
1 2 2
T.E. = kA2  cos t  0   sin  t 0    U  0 
2
1
 T.E. = kA2
2
i.e., total energy remains constant (or conserved), if no energy is dissipated.
Important Relations :
1. Position
If mean position is at origin the position (X coordinate) depends on time in general as :
x (t) = A sin (t + 0)
 At mean position, x = 0
 At extremes, x = + A, – A
2. Velocity
 At any time instant t, v (t) = A  cos (t + 0)
 At any position x, v (x) = ± A2  x 2

This can be obtained by eliminating t between the expressions for x (t) and v (t).  sign indi-
cates that particle passes every postion with equal and opposite velocities.
 velocity is minimum at extremes because the particles is at rest.
i.e., v = 0 at extreme position.
 velocity has maximum magnitude at mean postion.
|v| max =  A at mean position.
3. Acceleration
 At any instant t, a (t) = – 2 A sin (t + 0)
 at any position x, a (x) = – 2 x
 Acceleration is always directed towards mean postion.
 The magnitude of acceleration is minimum at mean position and maximum at extremes.
|a| min = 0 at mean position.
|a| max = 2 A at extremes.
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4. Force on the particle

 At any instant t, F (t) = – m a = m 2 A sin ( t + 0)
 At any position x, F (x) = – m 2 x or F = – k x,
 Force is always directed towords mean postion.
 The magnitude of force is maximum at extreme positions.
| F |max = m 2 A at extremes.
There is no force on the particle at mean position. (The mean position is always a position of stable
equilibrium for the oscillating particle.)
5. Energy
Kinetic energy
1 1
 K= m v2  k= m 2 (A2 – x2)
2 2
 K is maximum at mean position and minimum at extremes.
1 1
 Kmax = m 2 A2 = k A2 at mean position
2 2
 Kmin = 0 at extremes
Potential energy
If potential energy is taken as zero at mean position, then at any position x,
1
U (x) = kx2
2
1
 U is maximum at extremes Umax = kA2
2
 U is minimum at mean position.
Total Energy
1
T.E. = kA2
2
and is constant at all time instants and at all positions.

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Illustration - 1 A 50 gm mass vibrates in S.H.M. at the end of a spring. The amplitude of the motion is 12
cm and the period is 1.70 s. Find the :
(a) frequency (b) spring constant
(c) maximum speed of mass (d) maximum acceleration of the mass
(e) speed when the displacement is 6 cm (f) Acceleration when x = 6 cm.
SOLUTION :
2
4 2
T = 1.7 s A = 12 cm m = 50 gm (d) amax =  A = A = 1.63 m/s2
T2
1 1
(a)  Hz = 0.588 Hz. (e) v (x) =   A2  x 2
T 1.7
2 2
m v=  A2   0.06 
(b) T = 2 T
Ks
v =  0. 38 m/s  speed is 0.38 m/s.
4 2 m (f) a (x) = – 2 x
 ks = = 0.68N/m
T2
4 2
a=– 2 (0.06) = – 0.82 m/s2
2 T
(c) Vmax =  A = A = 0.44 m/s
T
Illustration - 2 A particle of mass 0.2 kg undergoes S.H.M. according to the equation :

x (t) = 3 sin (t + /4).
(a) What is the time period of oscillation ?
(b) What are the initial conditions ?
(c) What is the total energy of the particle if potential energy is zero at mean position ?
(d) What are the kinetic and potential energies of particle at time t = 1s ?
(e) At what time instants is the particle’s energy purely kinetic ?
SOLUTION :
Comparing the given equation with : Hence the particle starts moving at t = 0 from
the position x = 1.52 and with the velocity
x (t) = A sin ( t + 0), we get :
= (3)/(2) m/s.
A=3m  =  rad/s 0 =  /4
(c) TE = 1/2 kA2 = 1/2 m2 A2
2
(a) T = = 2 sec  TE = 1/2 (0.2) ()2 (3)2 = 0.9 2

(d) At t = 1, x (t) = 3 sin ( + /4)
(b) x (0) = 3 sin /4 = 1.52 m.
= – 3/2 m.
dx/dt = v (t) = 3 cos (t + /4)
v (t) = 3 cos ( +  /4) = – 3/2 m.
 v (0) = 3/2 m/s

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1 2 1 9 2 Using x (t) = 3 sin (t + /4)

K mv   0.2   4.44 J
2 2 2 We have 0 = 3 sin (t + /4)
1 2 1
U kx  m 2 x 2
2 2 t + /4 = 0,  2, 3...........
1 9  t = – 1/4, 3/4 , 7/4, 11/4,...........
  0.2  2    4.44 J
2 2 At these time instants, particle crosses
(e) Energy is purely kinetic at mean position origin and hence its energy is purely
i.e.when x = 0. kinetic.
Illustration - 3 A particle executing SHM starts at t = 0 from the mean position with velocity v = 3 m/s
in the positive direction. If the time period of the oscillation is 2 sec., form an equation of motion of the
particle .
(a) What minimum time does the particle take to go from mean position to a point which lies midway
between the mean position and the right extreme ?
(b) What minimum time does the particle take to reach the right extreme from the mean position ?
SOLUTION :
 = 2/T =  rad /s. A = 3/ = 3 m.
Let x(t) = A sin (t + 0) be the equation of  Equation of motion is x (t) = 3 sin ( t)
motion (a) The particle is at mean position at = 0.
 v (t) = A  cos (t + 0)
At t = 0,
x (0) = 0m ; v (0) = + 3 m/s. Let t be time instant when it reaches P.
 0 = A sin 0 . . . .(i) Using x (t) = 3 sin (t)
and 3 = A cos 0 . . . .(ii) 1.5 = 3 sin t
From (i) we get : 0 = 0,  sin  t = 1/2  t = 1/6 ses.
From (ii) 0 = 0 is possible but t 0 =  is not (b) To go from O to A, time
possible.
= 1/4 (time period) = 0.5 sec.
0 = 0 is a possible solution.
You should note that OP = PA = 1.5 m,
From (iii) 3 = A  cos 0
but tOP tPA.

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Important note :
1. If particle starts at t = 0 from mean position
its equation is
x (t) = A sin t if initial velocity is
positive
x (t) = – A sin  t if initial velocity is
negative
2. If particle start at t = 0 from right extreme :

its equation is x (t) = A cos  t
3. If particle start at t = 0 from left extreme :

its equation is x (t) = – A cos t
Illustration - 4 A particle performs harmonic oscillations along the x axis about the equilibrium position
x = 0. The oscillation amgular frequency is  = 4.00 s–1. At a certain moment of time the particle has a
coordinate x0 = 25.0 cm and its speed is equal to vx0 = 100 cm/s in + ve x-direction. Find the coordinate x
and the velocity vx of the particle t = 2.40 s after that moment .
SOLUTION :
v 2x 0
vx20
2 2
=  (A – x02 ) 
2
A =  x02 100 1
2 cos 0 =  from ...(ii)

A 2
 A = 252 cm
Hence 0 = /4
Let x(t) = A sin (t + 0) be the equation of
motion and t = 0 be the given time instant. x (t) = 252 sin (4t + /4) and
 v (t) = A  cos ( t + 0) v (t) = 1002 cos (4t /4)
We have x (0) = 25 = A sin 0
At t = 2.4s, x = 252 sin [4 × 2.40 + /4]
and v (0) = 100 = A  cos 0
= –28.97 cm
sin 0 = 25/A = 1/2 from ...(i)
 v = – 108.3 cm /s

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Illustration - 5 A body is executing S.H.M. under the action of a force whose maximum magnitude is 50
N. Find the magnitude of force acting on the particle at the time when its energy is half kinetic and half-
potential. (Assume P.E at mean position to be zero)
SOLUTION :
Fmax = m 2 A = 50 At these time instants, magnitude of force act-
ing on the particle is
When energy is half-kinetic and half-potential,
KE = U  TE = 2 U A
F = m 2 x = m2
2
1 2 1  A
kA  2  kx 2   x  F = 252 N
2 2  2
Illustration - 6 If the displacement of a moving particle at any time be given by an equation of the form
y = a cost + b sin t, show that the motion is simple harmonic. If a = 3, b = 4,  = 2; determine the time
period amplitude, maximum velocity and maximum acceleration.
SOLUTION :
The particle is moving along Y-axis Comparing with y = A sin (t + 0),
y (t) = a cos t + b sin t 2 2

T=    sec
 2
y = a 2  b2 sin (t + 0)
A = a 2  b2 = a 2  b2 = 5m
a vmax = A = 2 × 5 = 10 m/s.

where than 0   
b amax = 2A = 4 × 5 = 20 m/s2
y = a 2  b2 sin (t + tan–1 a/b)
Illustration - 7 A particle is moving in a straight line SHM. Its velocity has the values 3 m/s and 2 m/s
when its distances from mean position are 1 m and 2 m respectively. Find the length of its path and period of
its motion.
SOLUTION :
v1 = 3 m/s at x1 = 1m and v2 = 2 m/s at x2 Using v2 = 2 (A2 – x2 ) we have
= 2m 9 = 2 (A2 – 1) . . . .(i)
4 = 2 (A2 – 4) . . . .(ii)

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On solving these we get : Hence length of path = 2A = 5.06 m

5 2
A = 6.4 = 2.53 m and = = 1.29 Time period = T = = 4.87 s.
2 
rad/s
Illustration - 8 Describe the resultant motion of a particle if the following two S.H.M.’s are simultaneously
superposed on it ;
(a) x1 = A sin  t and x2 = A cos  t (b) x = A sin  t and y = A cos t
SOLUTION :
(a) The resultant equation of motion will be (b) The two SHM’s are perpendicular (along
given by X and Y axes).
x = x1 + x2 Eliminating t, we get the equation of trajec
 x (t) = A sin  t = A cos  t tory
x (t) = A2 sin (t + /4 ) x2 + y2 = A2.
Hence the resultant motion is an S.H.M. Hence the particle moves in a uniform cir-
with amplitude A2, same time period and cular motion with angular velocity  and
initial phase /4. radius A.
Illustration - 9 A particle starts oscillating simple harmonically from its equilibrium position. Then the
ratio of kinetic and potential energy of the particle at time T/12 is : (T = time period) (Assume P.E at eqm
position = 0)
(A) 2:1 (B) 3:1 (C) 4:1 (D) 1:4
SOLUTION : (B)
Let, x = A sin t
T 2 T  A
At t= , x  A sin   A sin 
12 T 12 6 2
2
1 1  A
U m 2 x 2  m 2  
2 2 2
 2
1 1  A 
2 2 2
2
 2

2

k  m A  x  m  A    
2  2  
k 3

U 1

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Illustration - 10 The displacement-time equation of a particle executing SHM is : x = A sin (t +  ). At


time t = 0 position of the particle is x = A/2 and it is moving along negative x-direction. Then the angle  can
be :
(A) /6 (B)  /3 (C) 2 /3 (D) 5 /6
SOLUTION : (D)
x  A sin  t  0 
t = 0 , x = A/2
A 1
 A sin 0  sin 0 
2 2
 5
 0 = ,
6 6
Since it is moving along negative x-axis, 0 > /2
5
 0 
6
Illustration - 11 A particle executes simple harmonic motion with a frequency, f. The frequency with which
its kinetic energy oscillates is :
(A) f/2 (B) f (C) 2f (D) 4f
SOLUTION : (D)
1
K 
2

m 2 A2  x 2 
1 1
 K  m 2 A2  m 2 A2 sin2  t
2 2
1 1  1  cos 2t 
 m 2 A2  m 2   which is SHM with angular frequency 2
2 2  2 
NOW ATTEMPT IN-CHAPTER EXERCISE-A BEFORE PROCEEDING AHEAD IN THIS EBOOK

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ANALYSIS OF FORCES IN SHM Section - 2
The following steps must be carefully followed while analysing S.H.M. for a particle :
1. Displace the particle from the mean position (equilibrium position) by a distance x along the line of
S.H.M.
2. Analyses the forces on the particle and try to show that
(a) The magnitude of the net force is proportional to x.
(b) The force is directed towords mean position i.e. it has a restoring nature.
3. Find the value of proportionality constant k from the expression of the magnitude of force.
m
4. Find the time period using T = 2 k
Simple Pendulum
A simple pendulum is an idealised body consisting a point mass, suspended by a light inextensible string
When pulled to one side of its equilibrium position and then released, the pendulum oscillates.
In figure, the string of a simple pendulum of length l attached to a bob of mass m is shown making an angle
 with the vertical. The forces acting on m are mg or W (gravitational pull of earth) and T (tension in the
cord).
 Choose the axes along tangent to the arc of motion and the along the radius. Resolve the forces along
the two axes.
 The radial component of magnitude mg cosbalances the force and tension in the string.
 The tangential component of magnitude mg sin is the restoring force acting on m to return it to the
equilibrium state, so the magnitude of restoring force is :
F = mg sin  acting towords mean position.

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If the angle  is very small, then sin is very close to  (sin  ) in radians
So sin    or F  mg  ( : angular displacement)
Now the magnitude of displacement along the arc is x
(but for small , arc can be taken as a straight line segment)
x  arc 
  =    
  radius 
mgx
So F = mg  = . . . .(i)
l
F  x, so the simple pendulum executes S.H.M.
The relation between magnitudes of force and displacement is
F = kx . . . .(ii)
Comparing (i) and (ii) we get :
mg
 k=
l
So, the time period of a simple pendulum, when its amplitude is small, is given as
m m l
T  2  2  2
k mg / l g
1 k 1 l
Also v = frequency = 
2 m 2 g
Liquid Oscillating in a U - Tub

Consider a liquid column of total length 2l inside a U-tube as shown.

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In the U-tube, liquid is displaced from state of equilibrium by distance x. It is clear from diagram that total
difference in liquid levels becomes 2x.
Consider equal cross-section A on both the sides (tube is uniform throughout). The restoring force acting on
the liquid is the thrust of excess pressure due to the column ABCD.
The magnitude of restoring force is F = pressure × area
= (2x)  g A
F = (2 A  g) x . . . .(i)
or Fx  the liquid executes S.H.M. in the tube
Comparing (i) with F = k x, we get : k = 2 A  g

m m
Hence time period is, T  2  2
k 2 A g
but mass of oscillating liquid = m = A (2l) 
2 Al 
T = 2
2l  g
l
T = 2
g
Oscillation of a Cylinder Floating in a Liquid

Consider a cylinder of mass m and density d floating on the surface of a liquid of density . The total length
of cylinder is L and the length immersed in the liquid is l at equilibrium. Taking A as the area of cross-section,
we apply the law of floatation on the cylinder.

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At equilibrium
Weight of cylinder = Buoyant force
mg = v  g
where v is the volume inside the liquid .
(AL) d g = (A l) g
 Ld = l  . . . .(i)
If the cylinder is displaced from this position, it oscillates up down. Let us displace it downwards through a
distance x and analyses the net force acting on it.
As the volume occupied inside the liquid increases, the buoyant force B becomes greater then weight and
hence net force acts upwards.
Magnitude of net force is F = B – mg
= (l + x ) A  g – L A d g
=A g x + l A g – L Ad g
= (A  g) x using (i)
Hence the magnitude of the net force is proportional to x and the direction of force is towords the equilib-
rium (or mean) position.
Thus the cylinder will execute S.H.M.
Comparing with F = k x, we get :
k =A g
m m
And hence time period (T) = 2  2
k A g
Using m = (AL) d and Ld = l  we can further simplify for T as
A Ld A ld l
T = 2 
A  g = 2 A g T = 2
g
Hence the time period depends only on the length of the immersed portion.
Oscillations of a Block Connected to Spring

JEEMAIN.GURU
(a) Horizontal Spring :
Let a block of mass m be placed on a smooth horizontal surface and rigidly connected to spring of force
constant ks whose other end is permanently fixed. When the spring is in its undeformed condition, block is
in equilibrium. Let us displace the block by a distance x as shown.
The net force acting on the block has a magnitude Ks x and is directed towords its mean position (or
equilibrium position).
Hence the magnitude of force is F = ks x
i.e. F is proportional to x
block executes S.H.M. with k = ks
m
time period = T = 2
Ks
(b) Vertical Spring :

If the spring is suspended vertically from a fixed point and carries the block at its other end as shown, the
block will oscillate along the vertical line.

JEEMAIN.GURU
In its equilibrium position, the block elongates the spring by a

distance d. In this position the weight of block and elastic force
of spring balance each other.
If the block is displaced downwards by a distance x the elongation

in spring becomes d + x and elastic force becomes greater than the
weight of the block. The net force now acts upwards and has a
magnitude
F = Ks (d + x ) – mg
F = Ks d + Ks x – mg
 F = Ks x using (i)
Hence the magnitude of net force is proportional to x and its direction

towards the mean position (equilibrium position).
 the block executes S.H.M. and k = Ks
m
time period = 2 k
s
Combination of Springs
1. Springs in series
When two springs of force constants K1 and K2 are con-
nected in series as shown, they are equivalent to a single spring
of force constant K which is given by
1 1 1
 
K K1 K 2
K1K 2
K
K1  K 2
2. Springs in parallel
For a parallel combination as shown, the effective spring constant is K = K1 + K2

JEEMAIN.GURU
Illustration - 12 Show that the maximum tension in the string of a simple pendulum, when the
amplitude m is small, is mg (1 + m2).
SOLUTION :
2
 
v = 4gl  m  [ m is small & sin m m]
2
 2 
v2 = g l m2

m g l m2   mg 1   2
 T max = mg +
l
 m
Method 2 :
Let l be the length of the string. Tension will be We will treat the motion as the S.H.M. of a
maximum at the lowest position. simple pendulum.
If v be the velocity at bottom, from the force  vbottom = v =  A (at mean position )
diagram we have : Note : Carefully note that  here is the angular
Tmax – mg = mv2/ l frequency of oscillation and not the
angular velocity of the particle.
 Tmax = mg + mv2 / l
where A = Amplitude
Method 1 :
= length of arc from 1 to 2 = l m
Using conservation of energy from 1 to 2 (see
Fig.) g
v= l m
1/2 mv2 = mg l (1 – cos m) l
m g 2 2
 2 m  Hence Tmax = mg +  l  
v2 = 2gl  2 sin l l 
 2  2
Tmax = mg (1 + m).

JEEMAIN.GURU
Illustration - 13 A horizontal platform executes S.H.M. in a vertical line with time period  sec and ampli-
tude 0.5 m. A book of mass 2 kg is placed on the platform and oscillates with it. Find the greatest and least
values of the force exerted by the book on the platform.
SOLUTION :
Let  = 2/T = 2 rad /s be the angular fre- At the top extreme :
quency. N is minimum at the top extreme.
A = 0.5 m is the amplitude and m = 2 kg is the Net force towords mean position = m a = m 2 A
mass of the book.
 mg – Nt = m 2 A
For any particle executing S.H.M. the net force
acting at a distance x from mean position must Nt = Nmin = mg – m 2 A
be m 2 x and must be directed towards mean At the bottom extreme :
position.
N is maximum at the bottom.
There are only two forces acting on the book :
Net force towords mean postion = m a = 2A
its weight and normal reaction.
 Nb – mg = m 2 A
The net effect of these two forces must be to-
Nb = Nmax = mg + m 2 A
wards mean position.
Hence the least force which the book and the plat-
At the mean position there is no net force and form exert against each other.
hence normal reaction equals mg. Above mean
position, normal reaction is less than mg and = mg – m 2 A
below mean position, normal reaction is greater = 2 × 9.8 – 2 × 4 ×0.5
then mg.
= 15.6 N.
Note :To maintain to contact between the book and

the platform, Nmin must be positive. If Nmin
becomes less then zero the book will leave
contact with the platform.
Hence to maintain constant,
= mg – m 2 A  0  2 A  g

JEEMAIN.GURU
Illustration - 14 A spring of force constant k is cut into two parts whose lengths are in the ratio 1 : 2. The
two parts are now connected in parallel and block of mass m is suspended at the end of combined spring.
Find the period of oscillation performed by the block. (Hint : the force constant of a spring is inversely
proportional to its length.)
SOLUTION :
Let l be the length of the original spring. keff = k1 + k2
Length of parts are l1= l/3 and l2 = 2l/3 keff = 3k + 3k/2 = 9/2k
If k1 and k2 are their force constants, m

Hence time period = 2 keff
Force constant  1/length
k l = k1l1 = k2 l2
2m
 k1 = 3k and k2 = 3 k/2  Time period = 2
9k
For a parallel combination effective spring con-
stant is
Illustration - 15 On a smooth inclined plane a body of mass M is attached

between two springs other ends of springs are fixed. If each spring has a force
constant k, the period of oscillation of body is : (assuming the spring as massless)
M 2M M sin  M sin 
(A) 2 (B) 2 (C) 2 (D) 2
2k k 2k k
SOLUTION : (A)
The two springs are in parallel keff  2k
M
T  2
2k
Illustration - 16 Let T and T be the time periods of two springs A and B when a mass m is suspended from
1 2
them separately. Now both the springs are connected in parallel and same mass m is suspended with them.
Now let T be the time period in this position. Then :
TT 1 1 1
(A) T = T1 + T2 (B) T 1 2 (C) T 2
 T 2
 T 2 (D) 2

2

T1  T2 1 2 T T1 T22

JEEMAIN.GURU
SOLUTION : (D)
m
T1  2
k1
m
T2  2
k2
m
T  2 where k = k1 + k2
k
1 1 1
  
T2 T12 T22
Illustration - 17 A simple pendulum 4 m long swings with an amplitude of 0.2 m. What is its acceleration at
the ends of its path ? (g = 10 m/s2)
(A) zero (B) 10 m/s2 (C) 0.5 m/s2 (D) 2.5 m/s2
SOLUTION : (C)
a = gsin (tangential)
0.2 1  0.2 
 10   m / s 2  sin   tan   
4 2  4 
Illustration - 18 A rectangular block of mass m and area of cross-section A floats in a liquid of density . If
it is given a small vertical displacement from equilibrium, it undergoes oscillation with a time period T, then
select the wrong alternative :
(A) T2 m (B) T2 g (C) T2 1/A (D) T2 1/
SOLUTION : (B)
F = Axg
 F = (Ag)x
m
T  2
 Ag

JEEMAIN.GURU
ANGULAR OSCILLATIONS OF A RIGID BODY Section - 3
Linear S.H.M. is right-left (or up-down) oscillations of particles. A rigid

body can also execute clockwise-anticlockwise oscillations. These os-
cillations are called as angular oscillation.
A very simple example of angular oscillation is a thin disc suspended
by a wire attached to centre of the disc. If the disc is rotated in the
horizontal plane, the wire will be twisted. The twisted wire will exert a
torque on the disc tending to return it to its original position this is a
restoring torque (compare it with a restoring force in linear oscillation).
For small twist angles , this restoring torque is proportional to the
angular displacement  (Hooke’s Law).
Hence  = – C . . . .(i)
where –ve sign indicates that if  is anticlokwise, torque is clockwise and vice-versa i.e. torque is opposite
to .
The equation (i) is the condition for angular simple harmonic motion.
It can easily be compared to F = – kx
torque = – C
I = – C
d 2 d 2 C
I = – C  = – 
dt 2 dt 2 I
This differential equation for angular S.H.M. can also be compared with the same equation for linear S.H.M.
d 2x k
= – x
dt 2 m
Following the same comparison we can see that

I
Time period = T = 2 and the variation of  with time is :
C
 (t) = max sin (t + 0)
where max is the angular amplitude or the maximum angular displacement from the mean position.

JEEMAIN.GURU
Comparison of Linear S.H.M. & Angular S.H.M.
Linear S.H.M. Angular S.H.M.
F = – kx  = –C
m I
T = 2 T = 2
k C
x (t) = A sin (t + 0) (t)=max sin (t +0)
v(t) = A cos (t + 0) (t) = max  cos (t + 0)
v(x) = ±  A2  x 2 () = ±   2max   2
(x) = – 2 x () = – 2 
Note : Angular velocity at any instant is  while is the angular frequency in this case.
Physical Pendulum
A rigid body is suspended from a fixed point O. It can perform angular oscillations in a vertical plane about
the horizontal axis through O perpendicular to the plane of oscillations. This rigid body can be called as a
physical pendulum.
Let C be the centre of gravity of such a rigid body suspended
from O. The distance of C from point of suspension O is d.
If we displace the body anticlockwise through a small angle , the weight

of the body creates a clockwise restoring torque about axis through O.
Mangnitude of restoring torque is :
 = mg (d sin  )
 = mgd  (if  is small)
Comparing with  = C we have
C = mgd
Let I be the moment of inertia of the body about the axis through O.
I
time period = 2
mgd

JEEMAIN.GURU
Illustration - 19 What is the period of the pendulum formed by pivoting a meter stick so that it is free to
rotate about a horizontal axis passing through the 75 cm mark ?
SOLUTION :
Let m be the mass and l be the length of the stick. I
T = 2
l = 100 m mgd
The distance of the point of suspension form cen- ml 2
tre of gravity is d = 25 cm.  md 2
T = 2 12
Moment of inertia about a mgd
horizontal axis through O is :
I = Ic + md2 l 2  12d 2
T = 2
12 gd
ml 2
I = 12 × md2 2
l 2  12  0.25 
= 2 = 153 s.
12  9.8  0.25
Illustration - 20 A solid cylinder is attached to a massless spring so that it can roll without slipping along a
horizontal surface. Calculate the period of oscillation made by the cylinder if m = mass of cylinder and k =
spring constant.
SOLUTION :
In the mean position of the cylinder, spring will
be in its original length. Let us rotate the
cylinder anti-clockwise through an angle . This
causes a linear displacement R of the centre of
the mass of the cylinder towards left as shown.
Hence the spring is elongated by R.

JEEMAIN.GURU
Taking torques about the point P which is the  (clockwise) is opposite to  (anticlockwise)
instantaneous centre of rotation (vp = 0) for pure
rolling, 2 I cm  mR 2
 T= = 2
 = (k R ) R = Ip   kR 2
kR2 = (Icm+ MR2)  3m
T = 2
2k
kR 2 
 =
I cm  mR 2
Illustration - 21 Two identical balls A and B each of mass 0.1 kg are

attached to two identical massless springs. The spring-mass system is
constructed to move inside a rigid smooth pipe bent in the form of a
circle as shown. The pipe is fixed in a horizontal plane. The centres of
the balls can move in a circle of radius 0.06 m. Each spring has a
natural length of (0.06 m) and spring constant 0.1 N/m. Initially,
both the balls are displaced by an angle  = /6 radians with respect
to the diameter PQ of the circle (as shown) and released from rest.
(a) Calculate the frequency of oscillation of ball B.
(b) Find the speed of ball A when A and B are at two ends of the
diameter PQ.
(c) What is the total energy of the system ?
SOLUTION :
= 2 ks (2x) r
= 4 ks r2 
where ks = spring contant of each spring.
1 C 1 4 Ks r2
Frequency = 
2 I 2 mr 2
Let the balls A and B be at a distance x along the 1 4 k s 1 1
arc from P and Q as shown. We will analyse the =  s
motion balls as angular S.H.M. 2 m 
Elongation in lower spring = 2x (b) Let speed at mean position = Vmax
= 2r = compression in upper spring loss in elastic P.E. = gain KE
Restoring torque on any ball

JEEMAIN.GURU
1 2 1 2  1 2 
2  k s  2 x    2  mVmax  (c) TE  2  mVmax 
2  2  2 
2
Vmax = 2x
ks
=r.
 ks
= 0.02  m/s  0.1 0.02  J  3.95  104 J
m 3 m
NOW ATTEMPT IN-CHAPTER EXERCISE-B BEFORE PROCEEDING AHEAD IN THIS EBOOK
SUBJECTIVE SOLVED EXAMPLES
Example - 1 A certain mass of a ideal gas is enclosed in a cylinder of volume V0 fitted with a smooth
heavy piston of mass m and area A. The piston displaced through a small distance downwards so as to
compress the gas isothermally, and then it is let go. Show that the resultant motion is S.H.M. and find its
period. Take the atmospheric pressure as Patm.
SOLUTION :
Let A be the area of cross-section of the cylinder. 1

 xA  x A
When the piston is in equilibrium, forces on it P = P0  1   = P  1  
 V0  0
 V0 
must balance.
 P0 A = Patm A + mg . . . .(i)  (1 + t)n  1 + nt for small t]
Let us now displace the piston through a small Considering the forces on the displaced piston,
distance x in downward direction. As the the thrust of the gas pressure now exceeds its
compression of the gas is isothermal, the final weight and hence magnitude of the upward force
pressure P is given by : is :
P0 V0  xA
P0 V0 = P (V0 – x A) P = V – x A  F = P0  1  V  A – mg – Patm A
0  0 
Self Study Course for IITJEE with Online Support Subjective Solved Examples 27
JEEMAIN.GURU
Time period
P0 A2
 F= x using (i)
V0 m mV0
T  2  2
Hence the magnitude of force is proportional to k P0 A2
x and its direction is towards equilibrium posi-
tion. m V0
T  2
Comparing with F = k x, we get :  mg  2
 Patm  A
 A 
P0 A2
k=
V0 mV0
T  2
Patm A2  mg A
Example - 2 A uniform rod is placed on two

spinning wheels as shown in figure. The axes of the wheel
are separated by a distance 2l. The coefficient of friction
between the rod and the wheel is  . Demonstrate that in
this case the rod performs harmonic oscillations. Find
the period of these oscillation
SOLUTION :
If the rod is displaced by x towards right, the

normal reaction from right wheel increases to R2
and from left wheel decreases to R1.
Balancing vertical forces, R1 + R2 = mg . . .(i)
In equilibrium, normal reactions from two wheels Balancing moments about CG,
are equal and hence frictional forces also balance. R1 (l + x ) = R2 (l – x) . . . .(ii)
The net horizontal force now acts towards left
and is
= f2 – f1 = R2 – R1 =  (R2 – R1)
 mgx
= from (i) and (ii)
l
m ml l
Period = 2  2  2
k  mg g
28 Subjective Solved Examples Self Study Course for IITJEE with Online Support
JEEMAIN.GURU
Example - 3 A ball is suspended by a thread of length l at the point O on an

incline wall as shown. The inclination of the wall with the vertical is . The thread
is displaced through a small angle  away from the vertical and the ball is released.
Find the period of oscillation of pendulum. Consider both case.
(a) > (b) < (Assume  and  to be very small)
Assume that any impact between the wall and the ball is elastic.
SOLUTION :
(a) If  >  the ball dose not collide with the wall
and it performs full oscillations like simple pen Consider A as the starting point (t = 0) and ori-
dulum. gin ato point B
l Equation of motion is x (t) = A cos  t
 period = 2
g x (t) = l  cos t, because amplitude = A = l
(b) If  > , the ball collides with the wall and re time from A to Q is the time t when x becomes
bounds with same speed. The motion of ball from – l .
A to Q is one part a simple pendulum.
 – l  = l  cost

 t = tAQ = 1/ cos–1

The return path from Q to A will involve the same
time interval.
Hence time period of ball = 2 tAQ
2    l   
= cos 1   2 cos 1  
    g   
time period of ball = 2 (tAQ). l l  
= 2 2 cos 1  
g g  
Example - 4 A body A of mass m1 = 1kg and B of mass m2 = 4.1 kg

are inter-connected by a spring as shown in figure. The body A performs
free vertical harmonic oscillations with the amplitude 1.6 cm and frequency
25 Hz. Neglecting the mass of the spring find the maximum and the
minimum value of force that the system exerts on the bearing surface.
JEEMAIN.GURU
SOLUTION :
As A oscillates up and down, the normal reaction Combining

between B and the surface is max. when A is in
Rmax = (m1 + m2 ) g + m12 A.
lowest postion and it is minimum when A is at
top most postion. Case II : Topmost Position A
Case I : Lowest position of A
Let T2 be the tension in the elongated spring.

As B is at rest T2 + Rmin = m2g.
Acceleration of A is 2A towords mean position
Let T1 be the force in the compressed spring (down).
As B is at rest, T1 + m2g = Rmax  T2 + m1g = m1 2 A
Combining, we get Rmin = (m1 + m2) g – m12 A
As acceleration of A is 2 A towards mean po-
sition (up), Note : B will leave the surface if m1 2 A  (m1 + m2)
T1 – m1g = m1 2 A g.
Example - 5 In the arrangement shown in figure the sleeve M of mass m = 0.20 Kg is fixed between
two identical springs whose combined force constant k = 20 N/m. The sleeve can slide without friction over a
horizontal bar AB.
The arrangement rotates with a constant angular velocity
 = 4.4 rad/sec about a vertical axis passing through the
middle of the bar. Find the period of the small oscillations
of the sleeve. At what values of  will there be no
oscillations in the sleeve.
JEEMAIN.GURU
SOLUTION :
We will analyze the problem relative to the rotat-

ing bar AB. As the acceleration of bar will be m
 period = 2
centripetal, a pseudo force will act on sleeve k  m 2
away from centre and will be of magnitude m
(2 x). Note :If k < m 2, there will be no oscillations of the
sleeve. It will rush to the point B if it is dis-
If the sleeve is displaced by x, net force towards placed slightly (for k < m 2) or will remain in
centre the displaced position (for k = m 2).
F = kx – m 2 x = (k – m 2) x
Example - 6 A particle of mass m is located in a unidimensional potential field where the potential
energy of the particle depends on the coordinate x as U(x) = U0 (1 – cosax); U0 and a are constant. Find the
period of small oscillation that the particle performs about the equilibrium position.
SOLUTION :
ax
U(x) = U0 (1 – cos ax) = 2U0sin2
2
ax ax
For small oscillations sin  .
2 2
a 2 x2 U 0a2 x 2
Hence U  x   2U 0 
4 2
1
Comparing with U = k x2, we get k = U0 a2
2
time period = 2 m  2 m
k U 0a2
JEEMAIN.GURU
Example - 7 Two particles are oscillating along the same line with same frequency and same ampli-
tude. They meet each other at points midway between mean position and extreme position while going in
opposite. Find the phase difference between their motions.
SOLUTION :
Let t = 0 be instant when the particles cross each other at x = A/2 with equal and opposite velocities.
Let x (t) = A sin (t + 0) be the equation of motion

At t = 0, A/2 = A sin 0
0 = /6, 5/6
0 = /6 corresponds to a positive initial velocity
0 = 5/6 corresponds to negative initial velocity
 the equations for the two particles are
x1(t) = A sin (t + /6) and
x2(t) = A sin (t + 5 /6)
Phase difference
= | (t + /6) – (t + 5/6) |= 2 /3.
Example - 8 The mass M shown in the figure oscillate in simple harmonic

motion with amplitude A. The amplitude of the point P is :
k1 A k2 A k1 A k2 A
(A) k2 (B) k1 (C) k1  k2 (D) k1  k2
SOLUTION : (D)
Let x1 and x2 be change in the length of spring at extreme posituo of SHM.

As, left end of left spring is fixed. So, change in lenght of left spring at extreme position of SHM will be the
Amplitude of point ‘P’.
So, x1  x2  A
Also k1x1  k2 x2
k2 A
Hence Amplitude of Point P  x1 
k1  k2
JEEMAIN.GURU
Example - 9 A block of mass M is oscillating with amplitude A on the surface of a smooth horizontal
table with the help of a spring connected to it as shown. The spring has a force constant Ks and its other end
is rigidly fixed to a point P. At the instant when M passes through its mean (equilibrium) position, a small
mass m is gently placed on it.
Find the new time period and the new amplitude of oscillation. Was there a
loss of total mechanical energy ? Where did it go ? Assume sufficient friction
between blocks so that they quickly attain equal velocities.
SOLUTION :
The new oscillating mass is (m + M).
mM
 Tn = new time period = 2 Ks
Let A,  be the initial and An, n be the final amplitudes and angular frequencies respectively. As the mass m
is placed on M, we have from the conservation of linear momentum :
M Vinitial = (m + M ) Vfinal
M A  = (m + M) An n
Ks Ks
MA = (m + M) An
M mM
M
An = A M m
Hence time period increases and amplitude decreases.
The expression for the total energy is 1/2 K s A2. Hence TE decreases.
When m is placed on M, it slips for a short time before coming to rest relative to M. Hence the energy loss is
converted to heat through friction.
JEEMAIN.GURU
Wave Motion Vidyamandir Classes
Wave Motion
BASIC IDEAS Section - 4
In simple terms, we can say that wave motion involves transfer of disturbance (energy) from one point
to the other with the particles of medium ascillating about their mean positions. That is, the particles
of the medium do not themselves travel along with the wave. Instead, they oscillate back and forth about
some equilibrium position as the wave passes by. Only the disturbance is propagated.In this chapter we
will limit our discussion to mechanical waves (elastic waves) which require a medium to travel.There are
also electromagnetic waves which do not require any medium and can travel in vacuum.
The idea of wave motion can be understood by a very simple example. If a stone is dropped in a pool of
water, a distrubance is created where it enters the surface. The disturbance is not confined to that place
alone but spreads out and eventually it reaches all the parts of water, it brings the particles with which it
comes in contact, into motion. These particles set into motion neighbouring particles. They, in turn produce
similar motion in other and in this fashion disturbance is transmitted from particles to particles. The particles
oscillate over short paths about their initial postion, and as a result a wave moves through the
medium. The meduim as a whole does not go in the direction of the motion of the wave.
Transverse Wave
In transverse waves, the partcles of the medium oscillate perpendicular to the direction in which the
wave travels. Travelling waves on a tight rope are transverse waves. If one end of the rope is rigidly fixed
and the other end is given periodic up and down jerks, the disturbance propagates along the length of the
rope but the particles of the rope oscillate up and down. Disturbance travels along the rope in form of crests
(upword peaks) and troughs (downward peaks).
Transverse waves require that there should be a shearing force in the medium. Hence transverse waves can
be propagated only in the meduim which will support a shearing stress i.e., mainly solids.

JEEMAIN.GURU
Vidyamandir Classes Wave Motion
T
Speed of transverse waves in a tight string is c =
m
where T is the tension in the string and m is the mass per unit length of the string
Longitudinal Waves
In longitudinal waves, the oscillation of the particles is parallel to the direction in which the wave
travels. Disturbance travelling in a spring parallel to its length, a pressure variation propagating in the liquid,
sound waves travelling in a medium are examples of longitudinal waves.
Let us consider stretched spring. If one end of the spring is suddenly given an in and out oscillation parallel
to the length of the spring, the coils start exerting forces an each other and the compression and the expan-
sion points travel along the length of the spring. The coils oscillate right and left parallel to the spring.
The spring in the above example can be replaced by a long tube of air with a piston at the left end. The
piston is set in to oscillation along length of the tube.
Compressions (crowding together of molecules) and rarefactions (spreading out of molecules away from
each other) travel along the tube.The pressure at the compression point is higher and the pressure at a
rarefaction point is lower. The molecules of air oscillate right and left i.e. parallel to the wave propagation.
Longitudinal waves do not require shearing stress and hence can travel in any elastic medium: solid, liquid
and gases.
Bulk modulus B
Speed of longtudinal waves in a liquid = =
density d

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P
Speed of longitudinal waves in a gas =

Y
Speed of longitudanal waves in solid rod =
d
where, B : Bulk Modulus d : densty
 density of gas P : adiabatic bulk modulus
Y : Young’s modulus P : pressure
WAVE PROPERTIES
Wave Speed (c): (depends on meduim )
The speed of a wave is the the distance it covers in one second. It should be carefully noted that wave
speed is completely different from particle speed. Particle speed is the speed of the vibrating particles in the
meduim. On the other hand wave speed is the speed with which the disturbance (or wave) propagates in
the meduim.
Wave Frequency (v) :

The frequency with which the particles of the medium (through which the wave is passing ) oscillate is
known as wave frequency. In transverse waves frequncy is the number of the crests (or troughs) that pass
through a point in one second. In longitudinal waves, frequency is the number of compressions (or rarefac-
tions) that pass through a point in one second.
Time period (T) :

The time peroid of the oscillation of the particles in the medium is the time period of the wave.
Amplitude (A) :
Amplitude of the wave is same as amplitude of the oscillating particles.
Wavelenght (l) :
Wavelenght is the distance between two consecutive crests (or compressions) in a wave.
Wavelength, wave speed and frequency are related as follows :
c = v

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Phase :
When a wave passes through a medium, all particles oscillate with same frequncy, but they reach the corre-
sponding postions in their path at diffrent time instants.
For example, in the above figure, the particle at P is at top extreme; the particle at Q is passing through its
mean position; the particle at R is at its bottom extreme. These relative postion represent the phase of
medium of motion.
(i) If two particles have same position and same velocities at all time instants, they are said to be in
same phase(or in-phase).
(ii) Two particles are said to be in opposite phase (or exactly out of phase) if their displacements from
the mean position and their velocities are equal in magnitude but opposite in direction.
 the distance between particles in same phase = 0, , 2, 2............

 the distance between particles in opposite phase = /2, 3/2, 5/2,........
When we describe the wave equation, we will give a mathematical meaning to the phase of an oscillating
particle.
Instensity of a wave (I) :

In a travelling wave, energy is transferred through the medium in the direction in which the wave travels.The
transfer of energy per unit time per unit area perpendicular to the direction of motion of the wave is
called as the Intensity of the wave.
If A is the amplitude ; c is the speed; v is the frequency ;  is the density of the medium ; I is the intensity, then
I = 2 2 c  v2 A2 . . . .(i)

JEEMAIN.GURU
Note that intensity is proportional to the square of the amplitude (I  A2).

As the wave propagates through the medium, its energy is shared by a larger number of particles and the
energy through unit area per second decreases. Hence the intensity and amplitude go on decreasing as we
move away from the source of the waves.
For a point source giving out waves in all direction (three-dimensional wave), the variations of intensity with
distance (r) from the source is given as :
P
I= . . . .(ii)
4 r 2
where P is the power (total energy given out per sec.) of the source.
Combining (i) and (ii) we can deduce that amplitude at a point is inversely proportional to the distance of the
point from the source of the waves.
1 1
I  2  A 
r r
Wave Equation
1. Transverse wave travelling in tight string :
If a mathematical equation describe a wave, it must be able to give the position of any particles of the
medium at any given time instant. Consider a transverse wave travelling towards right in a tight string lying
along X-axis. If we take one point on the string as origin O, the displacement (y) of any particle P located at
some X-coordinate (x) at an instant its is given by ;
 2 x 2 t 
y (x, t) = A sin    0 
  T 
 0 depends upon initial conditions (at t = 0) and is called as initial phase.

2 x 2 t
 The angle  = – +0 is called as the phase angle and represent the phase of the particle
 T
located at x at time instant t.
 The wave equation can also be written in the folowing equivalent forms :

JEEMAIN.GURU
y (x, t) = A sin (kx – t + 0)

 2
y (x, t) = A sin   x  ct   0 
  
where k = angular wave number = 2/ and  = angular frequency = 2/T
Phase difference between two particles located at x1 and x2 the same time intstant is
 2 x1 2 t   2 x2 2 t  2 x1 2 x2 2
 = 1 – 2 =    0      0  =    x 
  T    T    
where x is the separation between the particles.
  = 0, 2, 4,..... for x = 0, , 2......

Hence particles are in same phase if the phase diffrence is an even multiple of .
Similarly we can see that
= , 3, 5,.......... for x = /2, 3/2,.........
Hence particles are in opposite phase if the phase difference is an odd multiple of .
The velocity of the particle at any instant is given by
 dy 
vp =  dt  = – A cos (kx – t + 0)
x  constant t
The equation of the wave travelling towards left (–ve X-axis) is

y (x, t) = A sin (kx + t + 0)
ll. General From of wave Equation :
An equation of the form y  f  a x  bt  , (Where a and b are positive constant), is called wave equaiton
if ‘y’ is finit for all x and t  R. where, y  displacement of particles or medium about their mean positon
and ‘t’ is time.
‘+’ sign indicates left travelling wave
‘-’ sign indicates right ravelling wave
b
Wave speed   Angular Wave number = a  Angular Frequency = b
a

JEEMAIN.GURU
Illustration - 1 A transverse wave of wavelength 50 cm is travelling towards +ve X-axis along a string
whose linear density is 0.05g/cm. The tension in the string is 450 N. At t = 0, the particle at x = 0 is passing
through its mean position with an upward velocity. Form an equation describing the wave. The amplitude of
the wave is 2.5 cm.
SOLUTION :
Let the wave be described by : Form (i) and (ii) we get : 0 = 
y (x, t) = A sin (kx – t + 0) Velocity transverse wave in the string is given by
2 2 T 450
where, k   4 and A = 2.5 cm = – = 300 m/s
 0. 5 m 0.05  101
y (0, 0) = 0 2 c 2  300 
  = 2 v = 
A sin 0 = 0  0.5
0 = 0,  . . . .(i) = 1200  rad/s.
dy  Using all the quantities, the equation is :

We also have >0
dt  (0, 0) y = 2.5 sin (4 x – 1200t + ) cm.
– A  cos 0 > 0 . . . .(ii)
Illustration - 2 Calculate the velocity of sound in air at N.T.P. The density of air at N.T. P. is 1.29 gm/l.
Assume air to be diatomic with  = 1.4. Hence calculate the velocity of sound in air at 27°C.
SOLUTION :
Velocity of sound in air We can see that the velocity of sound is propor-
tional to the square of absolute temperature.
P 1.4  1.013  105 N / m2 c2 T
=     1
1.29 kg / m3 c1 T2
= 331.6 m/s. T1 273  27

 c2  c1  331.6
P R T2 273
Using  T = 347.6 m/s
 M

JEEMAIN.GURU
Illustration - 3 Calculate the stress in a tight wire of a material whose Young’s modulus is 19.6 × 1011
dynes/cm2 so that the speed of the longitudinal waves is ten times the speed of transverse waves.
SOLUTION :
Speed of transverse waves in string We have c2 = 10 c1

T T Y T
c1     10
m Ad d Ad
where A: crossectional area and d ; density T Y
 stress = 
Y A 100
Speed of logitudinal waves in string =
d = 19.6 × 109 dynes / cm2
Illustration - 4 A source of sound emits a total power of 10 W in all directions. Find the distance from the
source where the sound level is 100 dB.
SOLUTION :
The intensity level () of a sound wave is mea- I = 10–12 × 1010 = 10–2 Wm–2
sured in decibels (dB) and is given by
I P
Using I 
 = 10 log10 I 4 r 2
1
where I is the intensity in W/m2 and = 10–12 10
W/m2 is the weakest sound intensity that can be  102 
heard. 4 r 2
= 100 dB 1000
I  r  8.92 m
 100 = 10 log10  I = I0 × 1010 4
I1
Illustration - 5 The equation of a travelling wave in given as y = 5 sin 10  (t – 0.01x), along the x-axis.
Here, all quantities are in SI units. The phase difference between the points separated by a distance of 10 m
along x-axis is :
 
(A) (B)   (C) 2 (D)
2 4

JEEMAIN.GURU
SOLUTION : (B)
2 2  2 
Δ 

Δx 
20
 10  K    0 .1 
 
=
Illustration - 6 A uniform rope having mass m hangs vertically form a rigid support. A transverse wave
pulse is produced at the lower end. The speed v of wave pulse varies with height h from the lower end as :
(A) (B) (C) (D)
SOLUTION :
m
Tension at P = T  xg

T T
V    gx
 m/
 V2 = gx
Illustration - 7 The amplitude of wave disturbance propagating in positive x-axis is given by
1 1
y at t = 0 and y  2
at t = 2s, where x and y are in metres
es. The
1  x2 1   x  1
shape of the disturbance does not change during the propagation. The velocity of the wave is :
(A) 1 m/s (B) 0.5 m/s (C) 2 m/s (D) 4 m/s
SOLUTION :
1 1 1
y t  2, y 
2 2  2  1   
1   k x  t   x  2  2
1  1
t  0, y   k2 = 1  k = 1 V   m/ s
2 2
1 k x k 2
NOW ATTEMPT IN-CHAPTER EXERCISE-C BEFORE PROCEEDING AHEAD IN THIS EBOOK

JEEMAIN.GURU
SUPERPOSITION OF WAVES Section - 5
Two or more waves can propagate through the same medium simultaneously. At the points where the two
waves overlap, the resultant dicplacement of particle is the displacements of the individul waves.
 y = y1 + y2 +............
The two most important situations involving supperpostion are :

(i) Stationary Waves :
These are formed when two waves of same frequency travelling in opposite directions overlap.
(ii) Beats :
These are formed when two waves of slightly different frequencies travelling in same direction overlap.
Stationary Waves
Let us consider equation of two transverse waves travelling along a tight string in opposite direction.
y1 = A sin (kx – t) travelling towards +ve X-axis,
y2 = A sin (kx +t) travelling towords –ve X-axis.
The resultant wave is described by

y = y1 + y2
y = A sin (kx – t) + A sin (kx +t)
y (x, t) = (2A sin kx) cos t
Hence the particle at location x is oscillating in S.H.M. with angular frequency  and amplitude 2A sin kx.
As the amplitude depends on location (x), particles are oscillating with differnt amplitude. The points where
amplitude is minimum are called nodes and the points where amplitude is maximum are called antinodes.
Nodes : Amplitude = 0
 2A sin kx = 0
 x = 0, /k, 2/k.....
 x = 0,  /2, , 3 /2, 2.....
Antinodes : Amplitude is maximum.
 sin kx = ± 1
 x = /2k, 3/2k
 x = /4, 3/4, 5/4

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 Nodes are completely at rest. Antinodes are oscillatating with maximum amplitude (2A). The points
between a node and antinode have amplitude between 0 and 2A.
 Separtation between two consecutive (or antinodes) = 
 Separation between a node and the next antinode = 
 odes and antinodes are alternately placed.
 N1, N2 are nodes and hence remain at rest. The segment of the string between N1 and N2 move
up and down. The figure show the postions of this segment at t = 0, T/8, T/4, 3T/8 ,T/2 where T is
time period of the wave.
 The portion between two consecutive nodes is often called as a loop.
 It is clear form the figure that since nodes are at, rest they don’t transfer energy. In a stationary wave,
energy is not transferred from one point to the other.
Vibrations of a Stretched String

Consider a string of lenght l stretched between two fixed supports. When a wave is set up in the string, the
disturbance travels in both directions while being reflected at each end. For a stationary wave to exist, the
fixed ends must be nodes.
As the distance between two consecutive nodes is /2, l = n/2 if there are (n + 1) nodes in all.
 = 2l/n
 v = c/ = nc /(2l)

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n T
v where T : tension & m : mass per unit length
2l m
Hence the string can vibrate with those frequencies which are integral multiples of the fundamental fre-
quency v0
1 T
where v0 
2l m
The possible frequencies are : v0, 2v0, 3v0 , . . . . . . .
The fundamental frequency is simply the lowest possible frequency for the vibrations in the in the string. The
nth multipule of the fundamental is known as the nth harmonic.
v0 is the first harmonic ; 2v0 is the second harmonic ; third harmonic and so on.
The shape of loops in the strings for these harmonic is shown below :
Vibrations in an column in a tube

1. Open at Both Ends :
The open ends of the tube become antinodes because the particles at the
open end can oscillate freely. Let l = length of the tube (or air column).
If there are (n + 1) antinodes in all, l = nbecause distance
between two consecutive antinodes is 
 v = c/ = nc/(2l)

JEEMAIN.GURU
where c : speed of sound wave

 the possible vibration frequncies are integral multiples of the fundamental or the lowest frequency
v0.
c
v0 =
2l
The possible frequencies are : v0, 2v0, 3v0,...........
2. Closed at one end :

The open end becomes antinode and closed end become a node.
The distance between a node and antinode is /4.
 If there are n nodes and n antinodes,
then l = (2n – 1) /4
c  2n  1 c
v 
 4l
 The possible vibration frequencies are odd multiples of the fundamental or the lowest fre-
quency v0.
c
v0 =
4l
possible frequencies are: v0, 3v0, 5v0, .........

JEEMAIN.GURU
Note : There are only odd harmonics in a tube closed at one end.
Beats
Beats are formed by the superposition of two waves of slightly different frequencies moving in the same
direction. If two sources of sound having slightly different frequencies are placed in the same medium, the
resultant effect heard at any fixed position will consist of alternate loud and weak sounds.
Let us consider two waves of frequencies v1 and v2 and amplitude A. We will analyse the net effect at a
convenientpoint (say, x = 0) :
y1 = A sin 2v1t
y2 = A sin 2v2t
 y = y1 + y2
 y = A (sin 2v1t + sin 2v2t)
y = [2A cos  (v1 – v2)t] sin  (v1 + v2)t
Thus the resultant wave can be represented as a travelling wave whose frequency is
 v1  v2 
  and amplitude is 2A cos  (v1 – v2) t.
 2 
As the amplitude term contains t, the amplitude (and hence intensity or loudness in case of sound) varies
periodically with time.
For Loud Sounds : net amplitude = + 2A
 cos  (v1 – v2) t = + 1
  (v1 – v2)t = 0, , 2, 3,........

JEEMAIN.GURU
1 2
 t=0 , ,......
v1  v2 v1  v2
For Weak Sounds : Proceeding similarly, we get :
1 3
 t= , ,.......
2  v1  v2  2  v1  v2 
1
Hence the interval between two loud (or weak) sounds =
v1  v2
 the number of loud sound per second = v1 – v2
 beat per sec. = v1 – v2
Note that v1 – v2 must be small (0 – 8 Hz) so that loud and weak sound variations can be distinguished.
Illustration - 8 The vibrations of a string of length 60 cm fixed at both ends are represented by the
equation : y = 4 sin x/15 cos 96t, where x and y are in cm and t in seconds.
(a) What is the maximum displacement of a point at position x = 5 cm ?
(b) Where are the nodes located along the string ?
(c) What is the velocity of the particle at x = 7.5 cm at t = 0.25 s ?
(d) Write down the equations of the component waves whose superposition gives the above wave.
SOLUTION :
(a) At x = 5 cm  vp = –4 (96) sin (x/15) sin (96t)
y = 4 sin /3 cos 96t At x = 7.5 cm and t = 0.25 s,
 y = 23 cos 96t vp = –4 (96) sin (/2) sin (96/4)
The particle is oscillating with an amplitude 23 vp = 0 cm/s
cm. (d) y = 4 sin (x/15) cos (96t)
Hence the maximum displacement is 23.  y = 2 {sin (x/15 + 96 t) + sin (x/15
(b) Nodes are the points which are permanently at – 9 t)}
rest.  y = 2 sin (x/15 + 96t) + 2 sin (x/15
 y = 0 for all time instants. – 96t)
 sin x/15 = 0 The components of waves are :
 x = 0, 15 cm, 30 cm, 45 cm, .... 60 cm. y1 = 2 sin (x/15 + 96t)
 nodes are located at the above x-coordi (Travelling towards –ve X axis)
nates. and y2 = 2 sin (x/15 – 96 t)
(c) Particle velocity = dy/dt (Travelling towards +ve X axis)

JEEMAIN.GURU
Illustration - 9 A steel wire 0.5 m long, of mass 5 gm, is stretched with a force of 400 N.
(a) What is the minimum possible frequency with which this wire can vibrate ?
(b) Is it possible for the wire to vibrate with a frequency of 1100 Hz ?
(c) What is the highest overtone that a person can hear if he is capable of hearing up to 10,000 Hz ?
SOLUTION :
(a) Minimum frequency = fundamental frequency
1100 Hz 11
= v0 
Now 200 Hz 2  an integer..
1 T 1 400
v0    the wire cannot vibrate with 1100 Hz.
2l m 2  0.5 5  103  2 = 200 Hz
(c) 10, 000 Hz = 50 × 200 Hz = 50 v0
(b) The wire can vibrate with frequencies which are  the frequency of 10, 000 Hz is the 50th
integral multiples of the fundamental frequency. harmonic and hence 49th overtone.
 the possible frequencies are :  he can hear upto the 49th overtone.
200 Hz, 400 Hz, 600 Hz, 800 Hz, 1000 Hz,.......
Illustration - 10 When a solid block is suspended from one end of sonometer wire, it vibrates with
fundamental frequency. If the block is immersed completely in water, the length of the wire has to be reduced
to the half of its value so that it again vibrates with same frequency. Find the relative density of the solid.
SOLUTION :
Let l1 and l2 be the initial and final lengths of the From (i) and (ii) :
vibrating wire.
Let V = volume of block d = density of solid 1 Vdg 1 Vdg  V  g

 = density of water. 2l1 m 2l2 m
When the block is in air d l2 d l2

  1   1
tension = weight of block = Vdg d   l22  l12  l22
1 Vdg Using l1 = 2l2, we get :

v0  . . . .(i)
2l1 m
When the block is in water d l12 4
Relative density =    2

tension = apparent weight = Vdg – Vg  l  3
l12   1 
2
1 Vdg  V  g
 v0  . . . .(ii)
2l2 m

JEEMAIN.GURU
Illustration - 11 The lengths of an open pipe and a closed pipe are in ratio 3 : 2. Find the ratio of the third
overtone of closed pipe and the second overtone of open pipe.
SOLUTION :
Let v1, v2 be the fundamental frequencies of the open and closed pipe respectively. If c is the speed of sound,
c c l 3 3rd overtone of closed pipe 7v2 7 2l1
v1  , v2  and 1   
2l1 4l2 l2 2 2nd overtone of open pipe 3v1 3 4l2
7 l1 7 3 7
Possible frequencies for open pipe are :    
6 l2 6 2 4
{v1, 2v1, 3v1,........}
Possible frequencies for closed pipe are :
(v2, 3v2, 5v2, 7v2,........)
Illustration - 12 A pipe of length of 1.5 m closed at one end is filled with a gas and it resonates in its
fundamental mode with a tuning fork. Another pipe of same length but open at both ends is filled with air and
it resonates in its fundamental mode with same tuning fork. Calculate the velocity of sound at 0°C in the gas,
given that the velocity of sound in air is 360 m/s at 30°C where the experiment is perormed.
SOLUTION :
Let n be the frequency of tuning fork and cg and So in gas :
ca be the speeds of sound at 30°C in the as and
air respectively. wave speed at 0°C 273  0

cg c wave speed at 30°C 273  30
v  a where l = 1.5 m
4 l 2l  speed of sound in gas at 0°C
 cg = 2 ca = 720 m/s.
273
= 720 = 683.43 m/s
303
Illustration - 13 A closed air column 32 cm long is in resonance with a tuning fork. Another open air
column of length 66 cm is in resonance with another tuning fork. If the two forks produce 8 beats per sec
when sounded together, find :
(a) the speed of sound in the air (b) the frequencies of the forks.

JEEMAIN.GURU
SOLUTION :
Let c be the speed of sound and v1, v2 be the As v1 > v2, we have v1 – v2 = 8
frequencies of tuning forks.
c c
c c c   8
v1    128 132
4l1 4  32 128
128  132  8
c c c  c  33792 cm / s
v2    4
2l2 2  66 132 c c
v1 = = 264 Hz; v2 = = 256 Hz.
Now | v1 – v2 | = 8 128 132
Illustration - 14 Two tuning forks A and B produce 5 beats/s. If the prongs of A are filed, 5 beat/s are again
heard. Find the frequency of A if the frequency of B is 240 Hz.
SOLUTION :
Let vA, vB be the frequencies of A and B. vA = 240 ± 5, because again 5 beats are
formed.
 vA = 240 ± 5
It means that the initial frequencies of A can be
When the prongs of A are filed, its frequency in- 245 Hz or 235 Hz. As the frequency has
creases to vA. The final frequency of A can be increased, the final frequency must be 245 Hz
and the initial frequency must be 235 Hz.
Illustration - 15 The equation for the vibration of a string fixed at both ends vibrating in its third harmonic
is given by y = 2 sin[(0.6 cm–1) x] cos [(500 s–1)t]. The length of the strings is :
(A) 24.6 cm (B) 12.5 cm (C) 20.6 cm (D) 15.7 cm
SOLUTION :

3 
2
3 2 3 2
      5  cm
2 k 2 
0.6 cm1 
= 15.7 cm
NOW ATTEMPT IN-CHAPTER EXERCISE-D BEFORE PROCEEDING AHEAD IN THIS EBOOK

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DOPPLER’S EFFECT Section - 6
Consider a source of sound (S) producing sound waves of frequency v. If an observer (O) hears the sound
waves, he will record a frequency same as v if both the source and the observer are stationary.
If the source or the observer or both are moving, the apparent frequency as heard by the observer will be
different from v. Let us call this apparent frequency as v. Let Vs, V0 be the velocities of the source and the
observer (or the components of their velocities along the line joining them). If c is the speed of sound, the
apparent frequency is given by :
 c  V0 
v  v  
 c  Vs 
V0, Vs are positive if they are directed from source to the observer. They are taken as negative if they are
directed from observer to source. In other words, we will assume that the direction from source to the
observer is the positive direction.
If the medium is moving relative to the ground, the speed of the sound will be taken as c + Vm (Vm is the
speed of the medium). Again note that Vm will be positive if the medium is moving from source to the
observer. So in general the apparent frequency is :
 c  Vm  V0 
v  v  
 c  Vm  Vs 
Illustration - 16 A railroad train is travelling at 30 m/s in still air. The frequency of the note emitted by
locomotive whistle is 500 Hz. What is the frequency of the sound waves heard by a stationary listener.
(a) in front of the train and (b) behind the train ? (speed of sound = 345 m/s)
SOLUTION :
(a) In front of train :  c  V0 
 apparentfrequency = v  v  
 c  VS 
 c0 
 v 
 c  30 
500  345
V0 = velocity of observer = 0 m/s  v   547.62 Hz
345  30
Vs = velocity of source = + 30 m/s
(b) Behind the train :
because the direction from S to O is the posi-
tive direction.

JEEMAIN.GURU
If observer is behind the train, the velocity of the  c  0  500  345

v  v  
source will be negative.  c   30   375
V0 = 0 m/s, Vs = – 30 m/s = 460 Hz.
Illustration - 17 Two trains are moving with speeds 30 m/s and 25 m/s towards each other. The frequency of
the whistle of the faster train is 500 Hz. What is the apparent frequency after the trains have crossed each
other ? speed of sound is 345 m/s
SOLUTION :
(a) The faster train’s speed is the source’s speed and (b) After trains have crossed each other, they will
the other is the observer speed. move away from each other as shown.
Taking the direction from S to O as +ve, Now V0 = + 25 m/s, Vs = – 30 m/s

Vs = + 30 m/s, V0 = – 25 m/s
 v  V0 
 c  V0  v= v  c  V 
v  v    S 
 c  VS 
 c    25   345  25 
 c   25    345  25  v= v  c  30  = 500  345  30 
v  v   500   
 c   30   
 345  30    
 
= 587.3 Hz. = 426.67 Hz.
Illustration - 18 Two tuning forks A and B having a frequency of 500 Hz each are placed with B to the right
of A. An observer is between the forks and is moving towards B with a speed of 25 m/s. The speed of sound
is 345 m/s and the wind speed is 5 m/s from A to B. Calculate the difference in the two frequencies heard by
observer.
SOLUTION :
Let the fork at A be the source S1 and the fork at B be the source S2.

JEEMAIN.GURU
For the sound from S1 :

 c  V0 
apparent frequency = v1 = v  
 c  VS 
Here c = 345 + 5 = 350 m/s as wind and sound are in same directions.
V0 = + 25 m/s. Vs = 0 m/s.
 350  25 
 v1 = 500   = 464.3 Hz.
 350  0 
For the sound from source S2 :
c = 345 – 5 = 340 m/s
As wind is opposite to sound.
Vs = 0 m/s, V0 = – 25 m/s
 c  V0   c   25  
 v2 = v   = 500  
 c  Vs   c0 
500  365
 = = 536.80 Hz.
340
 v2 – v1 = (536.80 – 464.30) = 72.5 Hz.
As the difference is very large, the observer will not hear the beats.
NOW ATTEMPT IN-CHAPTER EXERCISE-E BEFORE PROCEEDING AHEAD IN THIS EBOOK

JEEMAIN.GURU
SUBJECTIVE SOLVED EXAMPLES
Example - 1 A metal wire of diameter 1 mm is held on two knife edges separated by a distance of 50
cm. The tension in the wire is 100 N. The wire vibrating with its fundamental frequency and a vibrating
tuning fork together produce 5 beats per second. The tension in the wire is then reduced to 81 N. When the
two are excited, beats are heard at the same rate. Calculate :
(a) the frequency of the tuning fork (b) the density of material of wire.
SOLUTION :
On reducing the tension the frequency of the wire (b) Let  be the density of material
decreases. As the beats per sec remains same, it
1 100
means that finally wire has a lower frequency and Using  v  5    ;
initially tuning fork had a lower frequency. 2l m
(a) Let v be the frequency of the fork 1 100
95  5 
frequency of the wire changes from 2  0. 5  r 2 
v + 5 to v – 5
100 1
1 100 1 81  2 4

2
v+5= and v – 5 =
2l m 2l m
 r  10

 0.5  103   100
Dividing these equations we get : = 12.7 × 103 kg/m3
v5 100 v  5 10
  
v 5 81 v 5 9
 v = 19 × 5 = 95 Hz
Example - 2 The total length of a sonometer wire between fixed ends is 110 cm. Two bridges are
placed to divide the length of the wire in ratio 6 : 3 : 2. What is the minimum common frequency with which
three parts can vibrate ? Also calculate the ratio of number of loops formed in three parts. The tension in the
wire is 400 N and the mass per unit length is 0.01 kg/m.
SOLUTION :
Let us first calculate the fundamental frequency of each part.
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Subjective Examples
Solved Examples 55
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6
l1 = length of AB = (110 cm) = 0.6 cm 0.6 n1 = 0.3 n2 = 0.2 n3  6n1 = 3n2 = 2n3
63 2
The sixth harmonic of AB, third harmonic of BC
3
l2 = length of BC = (110 cm) = 0.3 m and second harmonic of CD are equal. Hence
63 2 this is the common frequency with which each
2 part can vibrate.
l2 = length of CD = (110 cm) = 0.2 m
63 2  lowest frequency = 6n1 = 3n2 = 2n3
1 T
n1 =  1  400
2l1 m  6  1000 Hz .

 2  0.6  0.01
1 T
n2 = The nth harmonic contains n loops.
2l2 m
AB will vibrate in 6 loops, BC in 3 loops and
CD in 2 loops.
1 T
n3 =  the ratio of loops = 6 : 3 : 2
2l3 m
l 1 n1 = l 2 n2 = l 3 n3
Example - 3 AB is a cylinder of length 1.0 m, fitted with a thin flexible diaphragm C at the middle and
two other thin flexible diaphragms A and B at the ends. The portions AB and BC contain hydrogen and
oxygen respectively. The diaphragms A and B are set into vibrations of same frequency and behave as antin-
odes. What is the minimum frequency of these vibrations for which the diaphragm C is node ? Under the
conditions of the experiment, the velocity of sound in hydrogen is 1100 m/s and in oxygen is 300 m/s. Calcu-
late the total number of nodes and antinodes.
SOLUTION :
c02 300
The tubes AC and BC will be two closed tubes vl=   150 Hz
with antinodes at A and B and nodes at C. 4l 4  0.5 
For Tube AC : vl 550
   3 v1 = 11 v2
c1= cH 2 = 1100 m/s v2 150
cH 2 1100 The third harmonic of AC and eleventh harmonic
v1=  = 550 Hz.
4l 4  0.5  of BC are of same frequency. So the minimum
For Tube BC : frequency with which they can vibrate is 3 v1 or
11 v2.
c2= c02 = 300 m/s
vmin = 3 v1 = 3 (550) = 1650 Hz
JEEMAIN.GURU
or vmin = 11 v2 = 11 (150) = 11 (150) Hence there are seven nodes in total (one in
AC, five in BC and one at C), and there are
= 1650 Hz. eight antinodes.
The number of nodes and antinodes in AC and

BC can be seen from the figure.
Example - 4 A source of sound of frequency 256 Hz is moving rapidly towards a wall with a velocity of
5 m/s. How many beats per second will be heard by an observer O standing in such a position that the sources
S is between O and wall ? c = 330 m/s.
SOLUTION :
Direct sound
Vs = –5 m/s 256  330
=  259.9 Hz.
330  5
because positive direction is from S to O.
 c  V0   330  0  (ii) frequency received by observer (v2) of the
v  v0    256   wave relfected from wall
 c  Vs   330  5 
= 252.2 Hz.  c  V0  c 0
v2  v1     v1
(i) frequency received at wall (v1) Vs = + 5 m/s)  c  Vwall  c 0
 v2 = 259.9 Hz
Beats per second = vl – v
= (259.9 – 252.2) Hz
= 7.7 Hz.
 c  Vwall   c0 
v1  v0    v0  
 c  VS   c  Vs 
JEEMAIN.GURU
Example - 5 A uniform string clamped at x = 0 and x = l is vibrating in its fundamental mode. Find the
total energy stored in the string. Given : Mass of string per unit length = m: Tension in the string = T ;
Amplitude of vibration = A ; Assume no change in the length of the string during vibration
SOLUTION :
The displacement of the string is given by Substituting the expressions of dm and , we get :
yx, t = A sin kx sin t 2 T 
1  
where k = /l for fundamental mode of vibration dE= ( dx) A2  2  sin 2  x
2  l  l 
and
 = (/l) = T /  1  2 A2 T  
= sin 2  x  dx
2 4l 2 l 
The energy of an element dm = (dx) of the string is
equal to kinetic energy at mean position. Total energy of string is
As vm  a  A sin kx .  l
2 2
1  A T x 
1 E=  sin2  x  dx
 The energy (dm) A2 2 sin2 kx 2 l2 0
l 
2
1  2 A2 T  l   2 A2T
=  
2 l2 2 4l
Example - 6 Two wires of same material of radius r and 2r respectively are welded together end to
end. The combination is then used as a sonometer wire under tension T. The joint is kept midway between the
two bridges. What would be the ratio of the number of the loops formed in the wires such that the joint is a
node ?
SOLUTION :
Let v1 and v2 be the fundamental frequencies of the two wires.
1 T 1 T
v1  and v2 
2l  r 2 d 2l   2 r  2 d
v1 4
  2
v2 1 So, when the wires vibrate with the lowest com-
mon frequency (= v1 = 2v2), there will be one
 v1 = 2v2
 first harmonic of wire 1 loop in wire 1 and two loops in wire 2.
= second harmonic of wire 2  ratio of loops = 1 : 2
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Example - 7 A column of air at 51°C and a tuning fork produce 4 beats per sec when sounded together.
As the temperature of the air column is gradually decreased to 16°C, they again produce 1 beat/s. Find the
frequency of the tuning fork. It is found that they again produce 1 beat/s if temperature is further decreased
explain.
SOLUTION :
Let n = frequency of the tuning fork.
The number of beats per sec decreases as the frequency of the air column decreases. Hence the frequency of
air column is initially (n + 4) at 51°C. At 16°C, the frequency of air column can be (n + 1).
 n + 4 c51  n + 1  c16
where c is the speed of sound
n4 273  51
 =  n = 50 Hz
n 1 273  16
They can again produce 1 beat/s when air column frequency reduced to [n – 1] at a further low temperature
T.
n 1 273  16
  
n 1 T
Example - 8 A copper wire 1 m long is held at the two ends by rigid supports. At 30°C, the wire is just
taut, with negligible tension. Find the fundamental frequency of the wire at 10°C.
Y = 1.3 × 1011 N/m2,  = 9 × 103 kg/m3,  = 1.7 × 10–5/°C.
SOLUTION :
As the temperature drops from 30°C to 10°C, the tendency of the wire to contract produces tension (thermal
stress).
Let  = drop in temperature = 30 – 10 = 20°C.
A = area of crossection
l = length = 1 m
l = contraction in length due to drop in temperature = l 
l l  
 strain =   
l l
From Hooke’s Law : stress = Y (strain)
T
 = Y  T = Y A
A
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1 Y A 1 Y 
 v 
2l A 2l 
1 1.3  1011  1.7  105  20

v
2 1 9  103
= 35Hz
Example - 9 A tube of a certain diameter and length 48 cm is open at both ends. Its fundamental
frequency is found to be 320 Hz. The velocity of sound in air is 320 m/s.
(a) Estimate the diameter of the tube.
(b) One end of the tube is now closed. Calculate the lowest frequency of resonance for the tube.
SOLUTION :
When an air column in a tube vibrates, the 0.48 + 2 (0.3d) = 0.5
antinodes at the open end(s) are located at a  d = 1/30 m = 3.33 cm.
small distance outside the open end. This small
distance is called as end correction. (b) If one end is closed, the effective length of
the tube will be :
Approximate end correction = 0.3 d
where d is the diameter of the tube.
In case of a tube open at both ends, the effec-
tive length of the tube that should be taken in
calculation will now be l.
l= l + e
c c
v 
4l  4  l  e 
320  100 32000

 l= l + 2e where e = 0.3 d  v 
4  48  0.3  3.33 4  49
c 320
v  320  = 163.27 Hz.
2l 2  l  2e 
l + 2e = 0.5
NOW ATTEMPT OBJECTIVE WORKSHEET TO COMPLETE THIS EBOOK
JEEMAIN.GURU
Vidyamandir Classes SHM & Wave Motion
THINGS TO REMEMBER
[A] SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION

1. A system is said to execute simple harmonic motion if the magnitude of the forces acting on it is directly
proportional to the magnitude of its displacement from the mean position and the force is always directed
towards the mean position.
For example : motion of a simple pendulum, vibrating tuning fork, loaded spring, etc., are all S.H.M.s.
The force acting on the particle must be towards mean position (i.e.,opposite in sign to x) and its magnitude
must be proportional to magnitude of x
(a) F=–kx
d 2x k
(b) = – x
dt 2 m
This equation is called as the differential equation of S.H.M . The general expression for x(t) satisfying
the equation is :
(c) x (t) =A sin (t + 0)
k m
(d) = and T = 2
m k
2. Initial Conditions
The amplitude A and initial phase 0 are determined by the initial conditions (position and velocity at t = 0)
for the oscillating particle.
When the motion starts at t = 0, initial position is :
x (0) = A sin 0 and the initial velocity is :
v (0) = A  cos 0
3. Energy
Kinetic energy
1 1
 K= m v2  k= m 2 (A2 – x2)
2 2
 K is maximum at mean position and minimum at extremes.
1 1
 Kmax = m 2 A2 = k A2 at mean position
2 2
 Kmin = 0 at extremes
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SHM & Wave Motion Vidyamandir Classes
Potential energy
If potential energy is taken as zero at mean position, then at any position x,
1
U (x) = kx2
2
1
 U is maximum at extremes Umax = kA2
2
 U is minimum at mean position.
Total Energy
1
T.E. = kA2
2
and is constant at all time instants and at all positions.
4. The following steps must be carefully followed while analysing S.H.M. for a particle :
1. Displace the particle from the mean position (equilibrium position) by a distance x along the line of
S.H.M.
2. Analyses the forces on the particle and try to show that
(a) The magnitude of the net force is proportional to x.
(b) The force is directed towords mean position i.e. it has a restoring nature.
3. Find the value of proportionality constant k from the expression of the magnitude of force.
m
4. Find the time period using T = 2
k
5. (a) The time period of a simple pendulum, when its amplitude is small, is given as
l
T  2
g
(b) Consider a cylinder of mass m and density d floating on the surface of a liquid of density . The total length
of cylinder is L and the length immersed in the liquid is l.
m 
T  2  2
A g g
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6. Springs in series
When two springs of force constants K1 and K2 are connected in series as shown, they are equivalent to a
single spring of force constant K which is given by
1 1 1
 
K K1 K 2
K1K 2
K
K1  K 2
Springs in parallel
For a parallel combination as shown, the effective spring constant is K = K1 + K2
7. Comparison of Linear S.H.M. & Angular S.H.M.

Linear S.H.M. Angular S.H.M.
F = – kx  = –C
m I
T = 2 T = 2
k C
x (t) = A sin (t + 0) (t)=max sin (t +0)
v(t) = A cos (t + 0) (t) = max  cos (t + 0)
v(x) = ±  A2  x 2 () = ±   2max   2
(x) = – 2 x () = – 2 
8. Physical Pendulum
A rigid body is suspended from a fixed point O. It can perform angular oscillations in a vertical plane about
the horizontal axis through O perpendicular to the plane of oscillations. This rigid body can be called as a
physical pendulum.
I
time period = 2
mgd
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[B] WAVE MOTION

1. Wave motion involves transfer of disturbance (energy) from one point to the other with the particles
of medium ascillating about their mean positions. That is, the particles of the medium do not themselves
travel along with the wave. Instead, they oscillate back and forth about some equilibrium position as the
wave passes by. Only the disturbance is propagated. Mechanical waves (elastic waves) require a medium
to travel.There are also electromagnetic waves which do not require any medium and can travel in vacuum.
2. Transverse Wave
In transverse waves, the partcles of the medium oscillate perpendicular to the direction in which the
wave travels. Travelling waves on a tight rope are transverse waves.
Transverse waves require that there should be a shearing force in the medium. Hence transverse waves can
be propagated only in the meduim which will support a shearing stress i.e., mainly solids.
T
Speed of transverse waves in a tight string is c =
m
where T is the tension in the string and m is the mass per unit length of the string
3. Longitudinal Waves
In longitudinal waves, the oscillation of the particles is parallel to the direction in which the wave
travels. Disturbance travelling in a spring parallel to its length, a pressure variation propagating in the liquid,
sound waves travelling in a medium are examples of longitudinal waves.
Longitudinal waves do not require shearing stress and hence can travel in any elastic medium: solid, liquid
and gases.
Speed of longtudinal waves in a liquid = Bulk modulus

density
= B
d
P
Speed of longitudinal waves in a gas =

Speed of longitudanal waves in solid rod = Y

d
where, B : Bulk Modulus d : densty
 density of gas P : adiabatic bulk modulus
Y : Young’s modulus P : pressure
JEEMAIN.GURU
4. (a) Wavelength, wave speed and frequency of a wave are related as follows :
c = v
(b) Instensity of a wave (I) :

In a travelling wave, energy is transferred through the medium in the direction in which the wave
travels.The transfer of energy per unit time per unit area perpendicular to the direction of
motion of the wave is called as the Intensity of the wave.
If A is the amplitude ; c is the speed ; v is the frequency ;  is the density of the medium ; I is the
intensity, then
I = 2 2 c  v2 A2 . . . .(i)
Note that intensity is proportional to the square of the amplitude (I  A2).
5. Wave Equation
(a) If a mathematical equation describe a wave, it must be able to give the position of any particles of the
medium at any given time instant. Consider a transverse wave travelling towards right in a tight string
lying along X-axis. If we take one point on the string as origin O, the displacement (y) of any particle
P located at some X-coordinate (x) at an instant its is given by ;
 2 x 2 t 
y (x, t) = A sin    0 
  T 
 0 depends upon initial conditions (at t = 0) and is called as initial phase.

2 x 2 t
 The angle  = – +0 is called as the phase angle and represent the phase of the particle
 T
located at x at time instant t.
(b) The equation of the wave travelling towards left (–ve X-axis) is
y (x, t) = A sin (kx + t + 0)
6. Superposition of Waves
Two or more waves can propagate through the same medium simultaneously. At the points where the two
waves overlap, the resultant dicplacement of particle is the displacements of the individul waves.
 y = y1 + y2 +............
JEEMAIN.GURU
The two most important situations involving supperpostion are :

(i) Stationary Waves :
These are formed when two waves of same frequency travelling in opposite directions overlap.
(ii) Beats :
These are formed when two waves of slightly different frequencies travelling in same direction over
lap.
7. Vibrations of a Stretched String

(a) Consider a string of lenght l stretched between two fixed supports. When a wave is set up in the
string, the disturbance travels in both directions while being reflected at each end. For a sationary
wave to exist, the fixed ends must be nodes.
(b) Hence the string can vibrate with those frequencies which are integral multiples of the fundamental
frequency v0 where
1 T
v0 
2l m
The possible frequencies are : v0, 2v0, 3v0 , . . . . . . .
8. Vibrations in an column in a tube

(a) Open at Both Ends :
The open ends of the tube become antinodes because the particles at the open end can oscillate freely.
Let l = length of the tube (or air column).
The possible vibration frequncies are integral multiples of the fundamental or the lowest frequency
v0.
c
v0 =
2l
The possible frequencies are : v0, 2v0, 3v0,...........
(b) Closed at one end :

The open end becomes antinode and closed end become a node.
The distance between a node and antinode is /4.
The possible vibration frequencies are odd multiples of the fundamental
or the lowest frequency v0.
c
v0 =
4l
possible frequencies are: v0, 3v0, 5v0, .........
JEEMAIN.GURU
9. Beats
Beats are formed by the superposition of two waves of slightly different frequencies moving in the same
direction. If two sources of sound having slightly different frequencies are placed in the same medium, the
resultant effect heard at any fixed position will consist of alternate loud and weak sounds.
Beats per second = 1 – 2
10. Consider a source of sound (S) producing sound waves of frequency v. If an observer (O) hears the sound
waves, he will record a frequency same as v if both the source and the observer are stationary.
If the source or the observer or both are moving, the apparent frequency as heard by the observer will be
different from v. Let us call this apparent frequency as v’. Let Vs, V0 be the velocities of the source and the
observer (or the components of their velocities along the line joining them). If c is the speed of sound, the
apparent freuency is given by :
 c  V0 
v  v  
 c  Vs 
V0, Vs are positive if they are directed from source to the observer. They are taken as negative if they are
directed from observer to source. In other words, we will assume that the direction from source to the
observer is the positive direction.
If the medium is moving relative to the ground, the speed of the sound will be taken as c + Vm (Vm is the
speed of the medium). Again note that Vm will be positive if the medium is moving from source to the
observer. So in general the apparent frequency is :
 c  Vm  V0 
v  v  
 c  Vm  Vs 
JEEMAIN.GURU
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JEEMAIN.

Vidyamandir Classes Simple Harmonic Motion

Simple Harmonic Motion

BASIC IDEAS Section - 1

Simple Harmonic Motion

Substituting (ii) in (i), we get :

Self Study Course for IITJEE with Online Support Section 1 1

Simple Harmonic Motion Vidyamandir Classes

2 Section 1 Self Study Course for IITJEE with Online Support

Vidyamandir Classes Simple Harmonic Motion

Energy Consideration in S.H.M.

Self Study Course for IITJEE with Online Support Section 1 3

Simple Harmonic Motion Vidyamandir Classes

If we take P.E. = 0 at mean postion then :

3. Total Energy : (TE)

4 Section 1 Self Study Course for IITJEE with Online Support

Vidyamandir Classes Simple Harmonic Motion

 At any position x, v (x) = ± A2  x 2

Self Study Course for IITJEE with Online Support Section 11

Simple Harmonic Motion Vidyamandir Classes

4. Force on the particle

6 Section 1 Self Study Course for IITJEE with Online Support

Vidyamandir Classes Simple Harmonic Motion

Illustration - 2 A particle of mass 0.2 kg undergoes S.H.M. according to the equation :

Self Study Course for IITJEE with Online Support Section 1 7

Simple Harmonic Motion Vidyamandir Classes

1 2 1 9 2 Using x (t) = 3 sin (t + /4)

8 Section 1 Self Study Course for IITJEE with Online Support

Vidyamandir Classes Simple Harmonic Motion

2. If particle start at t = 0 from right extreme :

3. If particle start at t = 0 from left extreme :

Self Study Course for IITJEE with Online Support Section 1 9

Simple Harmonic Motion Vidyamandir Classes

y (t) = a cos t + b sin t 2 2

a vmax = A = 2 × 5 = 10 m/s.

y = a 2  b2 sin (t + tan–1 a/b)

10 Section 1 Self Study Course for IITJEE with Online Support

Vidyamandir Classes Simple Harmonic Motion

On solving these we get : Hence length of path = 2A = 5.06 m

x (t) = A2 sin (t + /4 ) x2 + y2 = A2.

Self Study Course for IITJEE with Online Support Section 1 11

Simple Harmonic Motion Vidyamandir Classes

Illustration - 10 The displacement-time equation of a particle executing SHM is : x = A sin (t +  ). At

NOW ATTEMPT IN-CHAPTER EXERCISE-A BEFORE PROCEEDING AHEAD IN THIS EBOOK

12 Section 1 Self Study Course for IITJEE with Online Support

Vidyamandir Classes Simple Harmonic Motion

ANALYSIS OF FORCES IN SHM Section - 2

Self Study Course for IITJEE with Online Support Section 2 13

Simple Harmonic Motion Vidyamandir Classes

Liquid Oscillating in a U - Tub

14 Section 2 Self Study Course for IITJEE with Online Support

Vidyamandir Classes Simple Harmonic Motion

Comparing (i) with F = k x, we get : k = 2 A  g

but mass of oscillating liquid = m = A (2l) 

Oscillation of a Cylinder Floating in a Liquid

Self Study Course for IITJEE with Online Support Section 2 15

Simple Harmonic Motion Vidyamandir Classes

Using m = (AL) d and Ld = l  we can further simplify for T as

Oscillations of a Block Connected to Spring

16 Section 2 Self Study Course for IITJEE with Online Support

Vidyamandir Classes Simple Harmonic Motion

(a) Horizontal Spring :

(b) Vertical Spring :