Energy of Harmonic Oscillators?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the kinetic energy (K) of a block at a specific moment labeled B in a harmonic oscillator system. The potential energy at point B is established as U_B = (1/2)(k)(1/2A^2) = (1/8)kA^2. To find the kinetic energy at moment B, participants are guided through a series of questions that lead to understanding the relationship between potential and kinetic energy in harmonic motion. The total energy remains constant throughout the motion, allowing for the calculation of K at moment B using the established potential energy values.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of harmonic oscillators
  • Knowledge of potential and kinetic energy equations
  • Familiarity with energy conservation principles
  • Basic algebra for manipulating equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the equations of motion for harmonic oscillators
  • Learn about energy conservation in mechanical systems
  • Explore the relationship between potential and kinetic energy in oscillatory motion
  • Investigate the effects of varying spring constants (k) on energy calculations
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in the principles of energy in harmonic oscillators will benefit from this discussion.

erik-the-red
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Question:

Find the kinetic energy [tex]K[/tex] of the block at the moment labeled B. Express the answer in terms of [tex]k[/tex] and [tex]A[/tex].

Well, I know the potential energy at point B. That's [tex]U_B = (1/2)(k)(\frac{1}{2}A^2) = \frac{1}{8}kA^2[/tex].

How am I supposed to find the kinetic energy?
 

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If you can answer the following questions in order, then I think you'll arrive at the solution:

1.) What is the potential energy at moment A?
2.) What is the kinetic energy at moment A?
3.) What is the total energy at moment A?
4.) What therefore must be the total energy at any moment?
5.) What is the potential energy at moment B? (You already got this one).
6.) Using your answers to questions 4 and 5, what is the kinetic energy at moment B?

Give that a shot and see if you can't solve the problem.
 
Thanks. The answer was right in front of me :D
 

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