The discussion clarifies that in simple harmonic motion, such as a pendulum with an amplitude of 2m, the maximum acceleration is calculated using the formula (2*pi*frequency)^2 * amplitude, resulting in a positive value. While the restoring force acts towards equilibrium, the actual acceleration is a vector that can point in different directions, depending on its components. This distinction between the magnitude of acceleration and its direction is crucial for understanding the dynamics of simple harmonic motion.
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It's the maximal magnitude of acceleration, which always positive. The actual acceleration is a vector, which can point in different directions, depending on the sign of it's components.pyman12 said:The equation I am taught is that maximum acceleration is (2*pi*frequency)^2 * amplitude, which is a positive value?
Oh I see, the book didn't mention that. Thanks.A.T. said:It's the maximal magnitude of acceleration, which always positive. The actual acceleration is a vector, which can point in different directions, depending on the sign of it's components.