Find the natural frequencies of small oscillations

If you are referring to finding the roots of the characteristic equation to determine the natural frequencies, then yes, that is one way to solve for them.In summary, the conversation discusses the process of finding the natural frequencies of small oscillations in a system of two differential equations. The equations are linearized using Lagrange equations and then solved to obtain a matrix and column vector. The relation between the matrix and natural frequencies is also mentioned.
  • #1
rakso
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Find the natural frequencies of small oscillations
Hi,

Given a mechanic-problem, I've linearised a system of two differential equations, which the origin was Lagrange-equations.

The system looks like this;

$$ 5r \ddot{\theta} + r \ddot{\phi} + 4g \theta = 0´ \\ 3r \ddot{\theta} + 2r \ddot{\phi} + 3g \phi = 0 $$
$$ $$

And I shall find the natural frequencies of small oscillations of Theta and Phi. Are you supposed to solve the equations, then check for where the frequencys diverge?
 
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  • #2
Solve for ##\ddot\theta## and ##\ddot\phi##. You will then have a linear system on the form
$$
\ddot X = - A X,
$$
where ##A## is a matrix and ##X## a column vector of size 2. What is the relation between that matrix and the natural frequencies?

It is unclear what you mean by "where the frequencies diverge".
 
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1. What is the definition of natural frequency?

Natural frequency refers to the frequency at which an oscillating system will vibrate without any external force acting upon it. It is determined by the physical properties of the system, such as its mass and stiffness.

2. How do you calculate the natural frequency of an oscillating system?

The natural frequency of an oscillating system can be calculated using the equation f = 1/2π √(k/m), where f is the natural frequency, k is the stiffness of the system, and m is the mass of the system. This equation is derived from Hooke's Law and Newton's Second Law of Motion.

3. What factors affect the natural frequency of an oscillating system?

The natural frequency of an oscillating system is affected by the mass and stiffness of the system. Generally, a higher mass or a lower stiffness will result in a lower natural frequency. Other factors that can affect natural frequency include damping, external forces, and boundary conditions.

4. Why is it important to find the natural frequency of an oscillating system?

Knowing the natural frequency of an oscillating system is important for understanding its behavior and predicting how it will respond to external forces. It is also essential for designing and optimizing systems that rely on oscillations, such as bridges, buildings, and electronic circuits.

5. How can the natural frequency of an oscillating system be changed?

The natural frequency of an oscillating system can be changed by altering its mass or stiffness. For example, adding or removing weight from the system or adjusting the tension in a spring can change its natural frequency. Damping can also be used to change the natural frequency, as it affects the rate at which the system loses energy and oscillates.

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