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F = ma (Final Problems)
Simple Harmonic Motion
FMA-2026-19 · 2026 F = ma (AAPT)

2026 F = ma Exam — Question 19

A point mass m1 is attached to a box of mass m2 by a massless, inextensible rope of fixed length L, attached to the center of the box. The box can slide without friction on a horizontal surface. The mass m1 swings freely under gravity, and all motion occurs in the plane of the picture. Neglect air resistance. Find the angular frequency ω of small oscillations about the stable equilibrium. m2 L m1 In case you need the small-angle approximation, you may use 1 cos θ = 1 − θ2 + · · · , 2 r m1 + m2 g
Source: Question 19, 2026 F = ma Exam, © 2026 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.