Calculating Velocity and Energy of a Spring Mass System

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a spring mass system, specifically focusing on calculating the velocity at different positions and the total energy of the system. The mass is given as 0.35 kg, with a frequency of 3 Hz and an amplitude of 0.15 m.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the use of formulas to calculate velocity and energy, with attempts to derive the spring constant from frequency. Questions arise regarding the accuracy of calculations and the method for determining total energy.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided calculations for velocity at different points, while others have questioned the accuracy of these results. There is an ongoing exploration of how to correctly calculate the total energy of the system, with hints offered regarding potential energy at maximum compression.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating potential calculation errors and the implications of using different methods to find the spring constant and total energy. There is a noted lack of consensus on the correct values for velocity and energy, indicating a need for further clarification and verification of assumptions.

bard
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spring mass help--desperate

A 0.35-kg mass at the end of the vibrates 3 times per second with an amplitude of 0.15m. Determine (a)the velocity when it passes the equilibrum point (b)the velocity when it is 0.10m from the equilibrum point(c)the total energy of the system(d)the equation describing the moiton of the mass assuming that at t=0, x was maximum

ok i know that v=sqrtk/m(A^2-x^2)

the velocity would be V=sqrtk/m(0.15^2-0)

V=sqrtk/0.35(0.15^2-0)---other than that I am am stuck can someone help

Thnx
 
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Find the spring constant k from the frequency f:

f = 1/(2π) √(k/m)
 
ok i found K as 1.27 and plugged it back so \

so i got the velocity as 0.28m/s is this right

so then the velocity from 0.1 m from equibium would be

.78m/s

c) total energy of the system would be 1/2KA^2=0.014--dosent make sense

thnx
 
I think you messed up the calculations. Do them over.

Here's a practical hint. For a and b, you can just use the value of √(k/m) from the equation I gave. (No need to plug in k and m.) Less chance of calculation error.
 
ok i got v=1.59 for part A and v=1.18 for part b

how do i find the total energy of the system?
 
Originally posted by bard
ok i got v=1.59 for part A and v=1.18 for part b

how do i find the total energy of the system?
I get different answer for the speeds.

The total energy equals the spring potential energy at maximum compression.
 

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