Turning points of a classical harmonic oscillator

AI Thread Summary
The turning points of a classical harmonic oscillator are defined as the points where the potential energy equals the total energy. At these points, the kinetic energy is zero, indicating that the velocity of the oscillator is also zero. This occurs at maximum displacement, where the potential energy reaches its peak. Understanding these concepts is crucial for analyzing the motion of harmonic oscillators. The relationship between potential and total energy is fundamental in classical mechanics.
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Homework Statement


The turning points of a classical harmonic oscillator occur when the potential energy is equal to the total energy, correct?

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The Attempt at a Solution

 
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ehrenfest said:

Homework Statement


The turning points of a classical harmonic oscillator occur when the potential energy is equal to the total energy, correct?

Because kinetic energy and thus velocity is then zero. (Alternatively, for the classical oscillator, maximum PE would be at maximum displacement, which defines a "turning point".)
 

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