Question

Explain in terms of energy how dissipative forces such as friction reduce the amplitude of a harmonic oscillator. Also explain how a driving mechanism can compensate. (A pendulum clock is such a system.)

a.Dissipative forces increase amplitude.
b.Dissipative forces decrease amplitude.
c.Driving mechanism increases amplitude.
d.Driving mechanism has no effect on amplitude.

Answer 1

Dissipative forces such as friction reduce the amplitude of a harmonic oscillator by converting mechanical energy into thermal energy. A driving mechanism can compensate for this loss of energy by supplying additional energy to the system at the same frequency as the natural frequency of the oscillator.

Step-by-step explanation:

In terms of energy, dissipative forces such as friction reduce the amplitude of a harmonic oscillator. Friction converts mechanical energy into thermal energy, causing the system to lose energy over time, and thus reducing the amplitude of oscillation. The driving mechanism in a system, such as a pendulum clock, can compensate for the loss of energy by supplying additional energy to the system at the same frequency as the natural frequency of the oscillator. This input of energy from the driving mechanism helps to maintain or increase the amplitude of the oscillations.