The function sin²(ωt) represents

a periodic, but not simple harmonic motion with a period π/ω
a periodic, but not simple harmonic motion with a period 2π/ω
a simple harmonic motion with a period π/ω
a simple harmonic motion with a period 2π/ω

Correct answer: a periodic, but not simple harmonic motion with a period π/ω

Solution

Writing sin^2(wt) = (1 - cos 2wt)/2 shows it is periodic with period pi/w, but it is not a simple harmonic motion (its mean position is offset and it is not of the pure form A sin/cos about the origin). Hence it is periodic, not SHM, with period pi/w.

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