What does wt stand for in oscillation equations

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In summary, "wt" in oscillation equations stands for angular displacement and is used to determine the position, velocity, and acceleration of an object undergoing oscillation. When solving for the maximum speed and acceleration, the trigonometric function disappears and the maximum value is determined by the amplitude of the oscillation.
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nocturne-e
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What does "wt" stand for in oscillation equations

Hi,

In my physics class we are on the oscillation chapter. I'm kind of confused as to what "wt" in the position/velocity/accel. equations actually is. I understand that w=2pi/T and t is the time in an equation x=Acos(wt + delta) but when asked to find the max speed and accelerations after derving their formuls, the trig "disapprears" (assuming delta=o.)

What does "wt" stand for together and how does this change depending if the acceleration is max or the speed is max?

(I know this isn't a specific problem but it's a concept that I see on some of my HW probs.)
 
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  • #2


'wt' is essentially angular displacement.

But when it comes to trig functions if y=Bsinx or Bcosx

the maximum value of both sine and cosine is 1, so that the maximum value of 'y' is B.
 
  • #3


OH! I see. Thanks a lot. :)
 

What does wt stand for in oscillation equations?

Wt stands for angular frequency in oscillation equations, which is represented by the symbol ω.

What is the significance of wt in oscillation equations?

The value of wt determines the speed at which the oscillation occurs. It is directly related to the period of the oscillation, which is the time it takes for one complete cycle.

How is wt calculated in oscillation equations?

In simple harmonic motion, wt is calculated by multiplying 2π with the frequency (f). So, wt = 2πf. In other types of oscillations, such as damped or forced oscillations, the calculation of wt may vary.

What are the units of wt in oscillation equations?

The units of wt depend on the units of frequency (f). If frequency is measured in hertz (Hz), then the units of wt are radians per second (rad/s). If frequency is measured in cycles per second, then the units of wt are cycles per second (cps).

How does wt affect the amplitude in oscillation equations?

The amplitude of an oscillation is not affected by wt. It only determines the speed and period of the oscillation, while the amplitude is determined by the initial conditions and the energy of the system.

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