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F = ma (Final Problems)
Simple Harmonic Motion
FMA-2025-18 · 2025 F = ma (AAPT)

2025 F = ma Exam — Question 18

A particle of mass m moves in the xy plane with potential energy U (x, y) = kxy/2. If the particle begins at the origin, then it is possible to displace it slightly in some direction, so that the particle subsequently oscillates periodically. What is the period of this motion?
Source: Question 18, 2025 F = ma Exam, © 2025 American Association of Physics Teachers (AAPT) and the U.S. Physics Team. Adapted by PhysicsTrainer: reformatted into a separate question and answer choices for online multiple-choice practice; any shared setup from nearby questions is repeated here. Not affiliated with or endorsed by AAPT or the U.S. Physics Team.