# A child sits on a swing and is pushed so that it oscillates freely. Describe the energy changes that occur during one complete oscillation of the swing, starting from the highest point on one side.

> AQA A-Level Physics (7408) — 3.6.1 Periodic Motion · Describe · 5 marks

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. At the highest point the swing has maximum gravitational potential energy (and zero/minimum kinetic energy)
2. As the swing moves downward/toward the equilibrium position, gravitational potential energy is transferred to kinetic energy
3. At the lowest/equilibrium point, kinetic energy is at a maximum (and gravitational potential energy is at a minimum/zero)
4. As the swing moves upward toward the other highest point, kinetic energy is transferred back to gravitational potential energy
5. The total mechanical energy (kinetic energy + gravitational potential energy) remains constant throughout the oscillation (assuming no energy lost to surroundings/no air resistance/no friction)

## Key terms

- [oscillation](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/oscillation)

## Related

- [Revision notes for AQA A-Level Physics (7408)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Describe" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/a-child-sits-on-a-swing-c271361d) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.