How Do You Solve for C1 and C2 in Damped Simple Harmonic Motion?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving for constants C1 and C2 in the context of damped simple harmonic motion, represented by the equation x = (e^(-rt/2m))(C_1*e^(iw't)+C_2*e^(-iwt)). The user seeks to express the solution in terms of cosine and requires the values of C1 and C2 such that x' approximates -w'Asin(phi) at t = 0, contingent upon r/m being very small or phi being approximately pi/2. Key mathematical concepts include the use of exponential functions and their relationship to trigonometric identities.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of damped simple harmonic motion
  • Familiarity with complex numbers and exponential functions
  • Knowledge of trigonometric identities, specifically Euler's formula
  • Basic calculus, particularly differentiation of functions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the damped simple harmonic motion equation
  • Learn about Euler's formula and its applications in physics
  • Explore the implications of small damping ratios in oscillatory systems
  • Investigate the relationship between angular frequency (omega) and phase angle (phi)
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, engineers dealing with oscillatory systems, and anyone studying the mathematical modeling of damped harmonic motion.

runevxii
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I'm having trouble with this problem. I want to get it into a form with cos but I'm stumped.
The solution for damped simple harmonic motion is given by
x = (e^(-rt/2m))(C_1*e^(iw't)+C_2*e^(-iwt))
If x = Acos phi at t = 0, find the values of C_1 and C_2 to show that x'=(approx) -w'Asinphi at t = 0 only if r/m is very small or phi =(approx) pi/2.

Where w = omega and phi = angle phi and i=complex variable x' = 1st derivative

Any ideas or help would be really appreciated.
 
Last edited:
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exp (ix) = cos x + i sin x, and exp (-ix) = cos x - i sinx

Expand the exponentials and then rearrange the coefficents for cos x and i sinx.
 

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