Question

Two particles executing SHM of same frequency, meet at x = +A/2, while moving in opposite directions. Phase difference between the particles is

Answer 1

For particle 1

x1 = a.sin(wt) ...(1)

For particle 2

x2 = a.sin(wt+y) ...(2)

For instance, x1=x2=a/2

From (1)

a/2 = a.sin(wt)

Solving we get,

wt=π/6 or wt=5π/6

Putting these value in (2),

sin(π/6) = a.sin(5π/6+y) = a/2

Solving this,

y=-2π/3

Phase difference between 2 particles is -2π/3. Negative sign indicates particles moving in opposite side.