Finding Vmax of a Block in SHM: Mass, Spring Constant, and Distance

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In summary, a block with a mass of 200g is attached to a spring with an elastic constant of 5.0 N/m. It is pushed 5.00cm from its equilibrium position on a frictionless surface and then dropped. The maximum velocity of the block can be found using the work energy theorem, and the multiple choice options for this question are 0.250 m/s, 1.25 m/s, 0.05 m/s, and 5.0 m/s.
  • #1
Litdaze

Homework Statement


A block with mass m=200g is attached to a spring with a elastic constant of k=5.0 N/m.
The block is pushed at a distance x=5.00cm of its equilibrium position, in a surface with no friction.
Then its dropped of that position. Assume for t=0s that the block is at rest.
What is the maximum velocity of the block?
3a1cb6fe8d8e320aa4a4bf6382213e13.png

This is a multiple choice question, solutions being
a) 0.250 m/s
b) 1.25 m/s
c) 0.05 m/s
d) 5.0 m/s

Homework Equations


N/A

The Attempt at a Solution


bb927676ea389d454c9ec6b4ae65d102.png

I can't figure how to find Vmax[/B]
 
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  • #2
ok, that is Time Period and/or angular frequency ... do you want to use Hooke's Law (PE into KE), or do you want to use oscillation formulas?
 
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  • #3
Oscillations I guess, I really can't figure out how to find Vmax. I've tried the Vmax=Aw but somehow it resulted in 1, which isn't the answer.

Vmax = Aw = (0.2 kg)(5 rad/s) = 1.

I'm really confused
 
  • #4
in oscillations, capital A is the oscillation Amplitude (not the mass)
You need to keep track of your UNITS !
 
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  • #5
Ok then so Vmax = Aw = (0.05)(5) = 0.250 m/s?

It makes sense now.
 
  • #6
I think you can simply use the work energy theorem here.
 

What is the formula for finding Vmax of a block in SHM?

The formula for finding Vmax of a block in SHM is Vmax = √(k/m) * A, where k is the spring constant, m is the mass of the block, and A is the amplitude of the oscillation.

How do I determine the spring constant (k) and mass (m) in the formula?

The spring constant (k) can be determined by conducting a simple experiment where the displacement of the block is measured for different values of force applied to the spring. The slope of the resulting graph will give the value of k. The mass (m) can be measured using a scale or balance.

What is the role of distance (A) in finding Vmax?

The distance (A) is the amplitude of the oscillation and it represents the maximum displacement of the block from its equilibrium position. It is a crucial factor in determining the maximum velocity of the block in SHM.

Can I use this formula for finding Vmax for any type of oscillating system?

No, this formula is specifically for calculating the maximum velocity of a block in simple harmonic motion, where the restoring force is directly proportional to the displacement from equilibrium.

What are the units for Vmax in this formula?

Vmax has units of meters per second (m/s) as it represents the maximum velocity of the block during its oscillation.

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