Question

A particle is executing simple harmonic motion at midpoint of mean position and extremely. What is the potential energy in terms of total energy (E)?

(a) E/4

(b) E/16

(c) E/2

(d) E/8

I have been asked this question during an interview.

My question is based upon Oscillatory Motion in chapter Oscillations of Engineering Physics I

Answer 1

Correct choice is (a) E/4

Explanation: At y = A/2,

Potential energy = 1/2×kx^2

Potential energy=1/2×k×A^2/2^2 = 1/4×1/2×k×A^2=1/4×E.