Final answer:
After one period T of simple harmonic motion, the net displacement of the mass is zero, as it returns to its starting position.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of simple harmonic motion (SHM), the net displacement of a mass on a spring after a time interval equal to one period (T) is zero. This occurs because the mass returns to its starting position after completing one full cycle of oscillation.
The displacement as a function of time for a mass in SHM could be expressed using a cosine or sine function, such as x(t) = A cos(ωt + φ), where A is the amplitude and ω is the angular frequency. After one period T, the cosine function completes a full cycle, returning to its original value, which corresponds to the mass being back at its initial position.