AP Physics B : Harmonic Motion
Study concepts, example questions & explanations for AP Physics B
All AP Physics B Resources
Example Questions
Example Question #1 : Ap Physics 1
A spring is compressed 
We use Hooke's law equation to relate the force, displacement, and spring constant:
We are given the force and the displacement, allowing us to solve for the spring constant.
Note that the displacement is negative, since the spring is compressed. For springs, compressions represents a negative displacement, while stretching represents a positive displacement.
Example Question #21 : Newtonian Mechanics
A mass of weight 
First, we need to solve for the spring constant by using the force on the spring. We can use Hooke's Law:
The magnitude of the force on the spring will be equal to the force of gravity on the mass, which is given to be 
Next, use the spring energy equation with the displacement and spring constant to solve for the energy stored in the spring.
Example Question #1 : Other Potential Energy
A 
First, we calculate the kinetic energy of the block as it slides:
We know that all of the kinetic energy is converted to spring potential energy during the collision. We can use the equation for the potential energy of a spring and set it equal to the kinetic energy. Then, solve for the compression distance:
Certified Tutor
All AP Physics B Resources
