Simple Harmonic Motion: Unknown Spring Constant

In summary, the conversation discusses how to find the period of oscillation for a block attached to a spring with an unknown spring constant. The period is initially given as 2.0 seconds. The conversation then explores how the period changes when the mass, amplitude, or spring constant is altered. To solve for these changes, letters like m0, T0, and x0 are used to represent the unknowns. When the mass is doubled, the equation is modified to m = 2*m0.
  • #1
JJackson09
1
0

Homework Statement


A block attached to a spring with unknown spring constant oscillates with a period of 2.0 seconds. What is the period if a) the mass is doubled? b) the mass is halved? c) the amplitude is doubled? d) the spring constant is doubled?


Homework Equations


f=1/2pi(square root k/m)
f=1/T


The Attempt at a Solution


I understand when the period should increase and decrease but I am finding it hard to do the calculations. I cannot think of how to find the spring constant or the mass in order to fill in the missing parts of the equation.
Please Help!
 
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  • #2
Try using letters like m0, T0, and x0 for the unknowns.
Now when mass is doubled, you write
m = 2*m0
and substitue to the equations.
 

What is Simple Harmonic Motion?

Simple Harmonic Motion is a type of periodic motion in which an object oscillates back and forth around an equilibrium point due to a restoring force.

What is a spring constant?

A spring constant, also known as a force constant, is a measure of the stiffness of a spring. It is represented by the letter 'k' and is measured in units of force per unit of distance.

How is the spring constant related to Simple Harmonic Motion?

The spring constant is directly related to the period of oscillation in Simple Harmonic Motion. A higher spring constant results in a shorter period, while a lower spring constant results in a longer period.

How can the spring constant be determined for an unknown spring?

The spring constant can be determined by measuring the period of oscillation for a given mass on the spring, and then using the equation T=2π√(m/k) to solve for k. This process can be repeated with different masses to verify the results.

What factors can affect the spring constant?

The spring constant is affected by the material and dimensions of the spring, as well as the temperature and any external forces acting on the spring. It is important to keep these factors constant when determining the spring constant for an unknown spring.

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