1
Question
A block of mass m and charge q is placed on a horizontal frictionless table which terminates in a vertical wall as shown in figure. A horizontal electric field E towards right is switched on. Assume elastic collision (if any). Is it a simple harmonic motion ?
A block of mass m and charge q is placed on a horizontal frictionless table which terminates in a vertical wall as shown in figure. A horizontal electric field E towards right is switched on. Assume elastic collision (if any). Is it a simple harmonic motion ?
Open in App
Solution
The correct option is B No
When electric field will be switched on, the electric force will start acting on the block towards left. This will accelerate the block in left.
After elastic collision, block will reverse the direction. Now, electric force will retard the block. Block will come to rest at the starting point and will repeat the process.
So, the resulting motion is oscillatory motion but not simple harmonic motion.
(As in simple harmonic motion, the restoring force is function of displacement. Here, electric force is constant.)
When electric field will be switched on, the electric force will start acting on the block towards left. This will accelerate the block in left.
After elastic collision, block will reverse the direction. Now, electric force will retard the block. Block will come to rest at the starting point and will repeat the process.
So, the resulting motion is oscillatory motion but not simple harmonic motion.
(As in simple harmonic motion, the restoring force is function of displacement. Here, electric force is constant.)
Suggest Corrections
2
Similar questions
