Spring Mass System Approximations questions

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the approximation used in spring mass calculations, specifically the addition of one-third of the spring's mass to the total mass of the system. This approximation is deemed effective due to the dynamics of the spring-mass system, where the spring's mass contributes to the overall inertia during oscillations. The user seeks clarification on the rationale behind this specific fraction, considering factors like air friction and internal losses, but finds no satisfactory explanation.

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  • Basic concepts of damping and friction in mechanical systems
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Ethers0n
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I have been trying to figure out why it's considered a "good" approximation in spring mass calculations to add 1/3 of the mass of the spring to the total mass of the system. I understand the need to add SOME extra mass (other than the mass of the weight added to the bottom of the spring for example) but do not understand why specifically that amount is needed. I've thought about air friction losses and losses internal to the spring, but have still come up with nothing. Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks
 
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sorry about that...

I didn't realize there was a specific area just for homework questions. I reposted here after I realized where the parent post should have been.
 

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