A simple harmonic oscillator oscillates with frequency f when its amplitude is A. If the amplitude is now doubled to 2A, what is the new frequency?

A) 2f

B) 4f

C) f

D) f/2

E) f/4

(C) f

Explanation:

For a simple harmonic oscillator in the form of a loaded spring, its frequency is given by

where k is the spring constant and m is the mass of the load.

It is observed that the amplitude of the spring does not factor into this equation. Hence, the frequency is independent of the amplitude and remains the same.

The same applies to a simple pendulum whose frequency is given by

l is the length of the pendulum and g is the acceleration of gravity.

It is observed as well that the amplitude does not appear in the equation.

molecules are free to separate from each other and will take on the shape of the container. molecules move completely at random and high speeds. they vibrate in a fixed position and do not move around much. molecules expand to the edge of their container.