Help with oscillating spring and energy

In summary, an oscillating spring is a mechanical system that consists of a mass attached to a spring, which moves back and forth in a periodic motion. The energy of an oscillating spring is calculated by combining its potential energy and kinetic energy. The amplitude of an oscillating spring is affected by the mass, stiffness of the spring, and initial displacement. The energy of an oscillating spring changes over time as it converts between potential and kinetic energy. The frequency and period of an oscillating spring have an inverse relationship, where a higher frequency results in a shorter period, measured in hertz and seconds, respectively.
  • #1
dorkymichelle
40
0

Homework Statement




A 0.50-kg block attached to an ideal spring with a spring constant of 80 N/m oscillates on a horizontal frictionless surface. The total mechanical energy is 0.12 J. The greatest speed of the block is:


Homework Equations



E mech = 1/2kx^2+ 1/2mv^2

The Attempt at a Solution


Mechanical energy = Spring potential energy + kinetic energy

E mech = 1/2kx^2+ 1/2mv^2
0.12J=1/2(80)^2+1/2(50)V^2
but I have two unknowns, v and x...
 
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  • #2
for greatest velocity... equate x=0 ..
the greatest velocity in on mean position where x=0
...
and total energy of system is conserved at any tym
 

1. What is an oscillating spring?

An oscillating spring is a mechanical system that consists of a mass attached to a spring, which is able to move back and forth in a periodic motion.

2. How is the energy of an oscillating spring calculated?

The energy of an oscillating spring is calculated by adding the potential energy (due to the spring's elastic deformation) and the kinetic energy (due to the mass's motion) of the system.

3. What factors affect the amplitude of an oscillating spring?

The amplitude of an oscillating spring is affected by the mass of the object attached to the spring, the stiffness of the spring, and the initial displacement of the object from its equilibrium position.

4. How does the energy of an oscillating spring change over time?

The energy of an oscillating spring changes over time because as the mass moves back and forth, it converts potential energy into kinetic energy and vice versa. The total energy of the system remains constant, but the energy is constantly being transferred between potential and kinetic energy.

5. What is the relationship between the frequency and period of an oscillating spring?

The frequency of an oscillating spring is inversely proportional to its period. This means that as the frequency increases, the period decreases and vice versa. The frequency is measured in hertz (Hz) and the period is measured in seconds (s).

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