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Since amplitude can vary, it is inconvenient to set "0" at the maximum swing point. This can move your zero and all successive measurements with just a touch. Additionally, "simple harmonic motion" is easily described by combinations of the sine and cosine functions, and they yield positive and negative values of equal magnitudes. So it is *easier* to set zero at "mid span".

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Q: Why are positive and negative numbers used on a harmonic motion graph?
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