SHM Maximum Velocity

[frog1944]

Hi,

For simple harmonic motion, if the question asks about the maximum velocity, can I say that as it is a trig function its maximum value for the trig part is 1, and then multiply it by the amplitude (if that makes sense)? Or do I have to say it occurs when the derivate of velocity (acceleration) equals zero, find when that occurs, substitute it into the velocity and evaluate?

Thanks

[jakesilove]

Hi,

For simple harmonic motion, if the question asks about the maximum velocity, can I say that as it is a trig function its maximum value for the trig part is 1, and then multiply it by the amplitude (if that makes sense)? Or do I have to say it occurs when the derivate of velocity (acceleration) equals zero, find when that occurs, substitute it into the velocity and evaluate?

Thanks

Yep, you can just use for first argument! Way easier than the second

I guess the only caveat is when the amplitude is negative; in that case, a maximum will occur when the trig part equals -1.

[frog1944]

Ok, thanks