Answer to Question #55633 in Mechanics | Relativity for gee

Question

If an oscillatory motion must be simple harmonic, the restoring force F must obey ------------------ law for small displacements from equilibrium position

A. Achimedes'
B. Kepler's
C. Hooke's
D. Newton's

Answer 1

Let’s consider a simple harmonic oscillator that consists from a weight attached to one end of a spring. The other end of the spring is connected to the wall. If the system is left at rest at the equilibrium position then there is no net force acting on the mass. However, if the mass is displaced from the equilibrium position, a restoring force F which obeys Hooke’s law is exerted by the spring.
Therefore, the correct answer is c) Hooke’s law.