What are the energy transformations in SHM?

In simple harmonic motion (SHM), energy transforms between potential and kinetic energy.

In SHM, the total energy of the system remains constant, but it continuously transforms between kinetic and potential energy. This is due to the oscillating nature of the system. The kinetic energy is the energy of motion, while the potential energy is the energy stored in the system due to its position or state.

At the maximum displacement from the equilibrium position (either end of the swing or oscillation), the velocity of the object is zero, so the kinetic energy is zero. However, at this point, the potential energy is at its maximum because the object is furthest from its equilibrium position. As the object moves back towards the equilibrium position, the potential energy decreases and the kinetic energy increases. The potential energy is transformed into kinetic energy.

At the equilibrium position, the object is moving at its maximum velocity, so the kinetic energy is at its maximum. However, the potential energy is zero because the object is at its equilibrium position. As the object continues to move past the equilibrium position, the kinetic energy decreases and the potential energy increases. The kinetic energy is transformed into potential energy.

This continuous transformation between potential and kinetic energy is what drives the oscillation in SHM. The rate at which energy is transformed depends on the frequency and amplitude of the oscillation. Higher frequencies and larger amplitudes result in faster energy transformations.

In summary, in simple harmonic motion, the energy of the system is constantly transforming between kinetic and potential energy. This transformation is what drives the oscillation, with the energy being at its maximum potential at the extremes of the motion and at its maximum kinetic at the equilibrium position. The rate of this transformation is dependent on the frequency and amplitude of the oscillation.