Physics
Physics
Problem
A particle in simple harmonic motion is instantaneously at its extreme right position . Which statement about the restoring force acting on it at that instant is correct? a) is zero because the particle is momentarily at rest. b) maintains a constant magnitude at all positions and is always directed towards the equilibrium position. c) has maximum magnitude and is directed towards the equilibrium position. d) has maximum magnitude and is directed away from the equilibrium position.Intuitive explanation
At the extreme position, the particle has momentarily stopped but is about to reverse direction—this is where the restoring force is strongest. The key insight is that restoring force always points toward equilibrium, opposite to displacement. Since the particle is at (far right), the force must pull it back left, making negative and maximum in magnitude. Think of it like a stretched spring: maximum stretch means maximum pull back.
Intuitive explanation
At the extreme position, the particle has momentarily stopped but is about to reverse direction—this is where the restoring force is strongest. The key insight is that restoring force always points toward equilibrium, opposite to displacement. Since the particle is at (far right), the force must pull it back left, making negative and maximum in magnitude. Think of it like a stretched spring: maximum stretch means maximum pull back.