Circular Motion & SHM Simulation
Relationship Between Circular Motion and SHM
The x-projection of uniform circular motion results in simple harmonic motion (SHM). This simulation demonstrates how circular motion in the plane maps to sinusoidal motion along the x-axis.
SHM equation: x(t) = R·cos(ωt + φ)
where ω = 2π/T, φ = initial phase
where ω = 2π/T, φ = initial phase
Key observations:
• The amplitude of SHM equals the circle's radius
• The period of SHM matches the circular motion period
• Direction of rotation affects the phase relationship
