# A mass is attached to a spring and set into simple harmonic motion by pulling the mass downward from its equilibrium position and releasing it. Describe the motion of the mass during one complete oscillation, referring to displacement, amplitude, and how the restoring force affects the motion.

> Eduqas A-Level Physics — 5.1 Simple harmonic motion · Describe · 5 marks

> A mass-spring system oscillates vertically. The mass is released from a maximum displacement of 4 cm below the equilibrium position.

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. The mass starts at maximum displacement (amplitude) below the equilibrium position
2. A restoring force acts towards the equilibrium position, causing the mass to accelerate back towards equilibrium
3. The mass passes through the equilibrium position (zero displacement) where its speed is greatest
4. The mass overshoots equilibrium and reaches maximum displacement on the opposite side (above equilibrium), equal to the original amplitude
5. The mass returns to its original starting position, completing one full oscillation in a time equal to the time period

## Key terms

- [amplitude](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/amplitude)
- [displacement](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/displacement)
- [equilibrium position](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/equilibrium-position)
- [restoring force](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/restoring-force)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Eduqas A-Level Physics](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-mass-is-attached-to-a-dfa1e0ab) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.