Can a Phase Constant Be Determined from Given Oscillation Data?

In summary, the conversation discusses a 3kg object attached to a spring oscillating with an amplitude of 10 cm and frequency of 2 Hz. The force constant k of the spring is calculated to be 473.74 N/m. The total energy of the motion can be calculated using the equation TE= 1/2kx^2+1/2mv^2, and it does not matter at which point of the motion it is calculated. An equation for x(t) is also provided, x(t) = 0.01sin(4πt + φ), but it is unclear if the phase constant can be determined from the given information. Units and significant figures should be considered in calculations.
  • #1
SkinlessSpore
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Homework Statement


A 3kg object is attached to a spring and oscillates with an amplitude of 10 cm and frequency f = 2 Hz

a.) What is the force constant k of the spring?
b.) what is the total energy of this motion?
c.) Write an equation for x(t) describing the position of this object relative to its equilibrium position. Can phase constant be determined from the information given?[/B]

Homework Equations


k = (4π^2)(m)/T^2
TE= 1/2kx^2+1/2mv^2
1/2kA^2 = 1/2kx^2+1/2mv^2[/B]

The Attempt at a Solution



a.) k = 4π^2(3)/(0.5)^2 = 473.74
b.) First I attempted to find the velocity from the equation 1/2kA^2 = 1/2kx^2+1/2mv^2 I have trouble putting something in for x. Should I just put the amplitude in for x?
c.) x(t) = 0.01sin(4π t + φ)
[/B]
 
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  • #2
Welcome to PF!

Parts (a) and (c) look good except that you have not included units. Do you need to worry about significant figures?

Hint for (b): Does it matter at which point of the motion you calculate the energy?
 
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  • #3
TSny said:
Welcome to PF!

Parts (a) and (c) look good except that you have not included units. Do you need to worry about significant figures?

Hint for (b): Does it matter at which point of the motion you calculate the energy?
Thank you!
 

1. What is an oscillating spring problem?

An oscillating spring problem refers to a physics problem that involves a mass attached to a spring, which is then set into motion and oscillates back and forth due to the force of the spring.

2. How is the period of an oscillating spring calculated?

The period of an oscillating spring, which is the time it takes for one complete cycle of oscillation, can be calculated using the formula T = 2π√(m/k), where T is the period, m is the mass attached to the spring, and k is the spring constant.

3. What factors affect the period of an oscillating spring?

The period of an oscillating spring is affected by the mass attached to the spring, the spring constant, and the amplitude of the oscillation. The period will increase as the mass or the spring constant increases, and it will decrease as the amplitude increases.

4. How does the amplitude of an oscillating spring affect its energy?

The amplitude of an oscillating spring affects its energy by increasing the maximum potential and kinetic energy of the system. As the amplitude increases, the potential energy stored in the spring increases, which means the maximum kinetic energy of the mass also increases.

5. What is the difference between simple harmonic motion and an oscillating spring?

Simple harmonic motion refers to a type of motion where the restoring force is directly proportional to the displacement from equilibrium, while an oscillating spring specifically refers to the motion of a mass attached to a spring. An oscillating spring can exhibit simple harmonic motion if the spring is ideal and there is no friction or other external forces acting on the system.

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