During a training session, two footballers pass a ball repeatedly between each other. The 'to and fro' motion of the ball is not simple harmonic because the

I. Acceleration of the ball is not directed towards a fixed point

II. Restoring force is not directed towards the centre

III. Acceleration of the ball is not directly proportional to the displacement from a fixed point

Which of the statements above are correct?

  • A Acceleration of the ball is not directed towards a fixed point
  • B I and III only
  • C I and II only
  • D II and III only
  • E I, II and III

The correct answer is A. Acceleration of the ball is not directed towards a fixed point

In SHM, the body must have acceleration in a direction opposite to the displacement and the acceleration must be directly proportional to displacement. Also, the acceleration must be directed towards its mean position. This is not the case with a football on the pitch.

Previous question Next question