Determining the period of a periodic motion

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the period of a ball's motion after being dropped from a height of 4 meters, considering a perfectly elastic collision with the ground and neglecting air resistance. The subject area includes concepts from kinematics and periodic motion.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to calculate the time of fall using kinematic equations but questions the validity of their method after comparing it with the book's answer. Some participants suggest alternative equations for calculating the motion and discuss the nature of the motion in relation to Simple Harmonic Motion.

Discussion Status

Participants are exploring different methods to calculate the period of the motion, with some providing alternative approaches and raising questions about the classification of the motion as Simple Harmonic. There is no explicit consensus on the correct method or classification yet, but constructive guidance has been shared.

Contextual Notes

The original poster expresses confusion regarding their calculations and the discrepancy with the book's answer. There is an ongoing discussion about the definitions and characteristics of Simple Harmonic Motion, which may influence the interpretation of the problem.

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Hi. I am currently working on a problem involving a ball being dropped from a hieght of 4m making a perfectly elastic collision with the ground. Assuming no mechanical energy is lost due to air resistance, I must find the period of the motion.
I used the equation
V(final) = V(initial) - gt
where V(initial)=0
therefore V(final)= -9.8t

and V^2(final) = V^2(initial) - 2gh
h= -4m
V(final)= -9.8t
so i replaced these values in the equation, and i find t= 0.9035 seconds
To find T, I simply multiplied 0.9035 sec by 2. However, my answer does not correspond that what it says in the book, and now I'm lost! Can someone help me by telling me if my method is right or wrong? I would really appreciate it!
Thank you!
 
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And also, why is this type of motion NOT Simple Harmonic?
 
It is simple harmonic motion if the collisions are completely elastic and no air resistance/friction is present.

It takes 1.807s for the ball to fall, hit the ground, and go back to its original height. What does the book say?
 
1) it would have been more straightforward to use
x = x_0 + v_0 *t + .5 g t^2 => 4m = .5(9.8m/ss) t^2

2) yes, the time Period T = 1.807s . Did they give frequency?

3) "Harmonic" means location function x(t-t_0) can be written
as a Sum of sine waves with (a) w_i = n * w_0
"Simple Harmonic" means that there's only one term:
x(t) = A sin(wt) (if you set your starting time right, so no phase).
Do you think this ball's motion is Simple Harmonic?
 

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