Understanding Hooke's Law and SHM: A 4kg Mass on a Spring with k = 40n/m

In summary, the conversation discusses Hooke's Law and simple harmonic motion (SHM) in relation to a 4 kg mass placed on a spring with a spring constant of 40 n/m. The maximum distance the mass travels is 30 cm in either direction. The conversation also mentions finding the length the spring is stretched and the period of oscillation when the mass is lowered 20 cm and released.
  • #1
superaznnerd
59
0
hooke's law and shm help please

Homework Statement


a 4 kg mass is placed on a spring (k = 40n/m) which hangs vertically. the mass is allowed to oscillate in shm. the maximum distance the mass travels in anyone direciton is 30cm


Homework Equations


k = 40 n/m
distance = 30 cm
mass = 4 kg
Fspring = -kx
net force = Fspring-mg



The Attempt at a Solution


Fspring = -kx
Fspring = -(40) (.3) = -12 (wrong answer)
 
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  • #2


What are you asked to find?
 
  • #3


o lol you're asked to find :
a) how many meters is the spring streched?
b) if the mass is lowered 20cm and released, what will be its period of oscillation?
 

1. What is Hooke's law?

Hooke's law is a principle in physics that states the force exerted by a spring is directly proportional to the distance it is stretched or compressed from its equilibrium position.

2. What is the equation for Hooke's law?

The equation for Hooke's law is F = -kx, where F is the force applied to the spring, k is the spring constant, and x is the displacement from the equilibrium position.

3. What is simple harmonic motion?

Simple harmonic motion (SHM) is a type of periodic motion where the restoring force is directly proportional to the displacement from the equilibrium position. It follows Hooke's law and can be seen in systems such as pendulums and springs.

4. How is Hooke's law used in real life?

Hooke's law is used in various real-life applications, such as calculating the force needed to compress or stretch a spring in a car's suspension system, determining the elasticity of materials, and designing shock absorbers for buildings and bridges.

5. What are some limitations of Hooke's law?

Hooke's law is only applicable to elastic materials, meaning the material returns to its original shape after the force is removed. It also assumes that the spring is massless and the force is applied gradually. In reality, there may be factors that affect the accuracy of Hooke's law calculations, such as temperature and material fatigue.

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