Deriving angular frequency for simple harmonic motion

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on deriving the equation for angular frequency in simple harmonic motion of a spring, specifically showing that ω = √(k/m) from the force equation F = -kx. The user expresses confusion over the complex math involving Euler's identity and differential equations introduced by their teacher. They detail their approach by equating forces, leading to the relationship a + (k/m)x = 0, and derive displacement as x = A * Cos(ωt). By differentiating displacement to find velocity and acceleration, they substitute these into the motion equation, ultimately simplifying to arrive at the angular frequency formula. The thread emphasizes a step-by-step derivation while seeking a clearer understanding of the concepts involved.
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Homework Statement


Derive the equation for angular frequency for simple harmonic motion of a spring.


Homework Equations


Derive omega = sqrt(k/m) from F = -kx
(sorry i don't know how to use notation)


The Attempt at a Solution


I asked my teacher how to do this, and he used some crazy math I didn't learn yet, including Euler's identity and differential equations. I'm in an AP calculus bc class, and i understand differential equations, just not some aspects. Does anyone know a simple solution for this? Thanks in advance
 
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If F=ma and F=-kx

Then ma=-kx (by equating the forces.)

Which can be also written as ma+kx=0

or a+\frac{k}{m}x=0

Now if x is displacement, differentiating once with respect to time will give you velocity of the spring and then differentiating again with respect to time will give acceleration.

Displacement of a spring can be given by

x=A * Cos (\omega t)

where A is the Amplitude of motion and \omega is the angular frequency

Now Differenting once will give velocity;

v=-A\omega Sin(\omega t)

and again to give acceleration

a=-A \omega^{2} Cos(\omega t)

Now substituting our formula for Acceleration and displacement into our equation of motion

a+\frac{k}{m}x=0

Gives -A \omega^{2} Cos(\omega t) +\frac{k}{m}A Cos (\omega t)=0

Which can be rearranged to;

A(-\omega^{2} +\frac{k}{m})Cos(\omega t)=0

Can get rid of the A and Cos(\omega t)

which leaves -\omega^{2} +\frac{k}{m}=0

which can be rearranged to \omega=\sqrt{\frac{k}{m}}
 
tjr39 said:
If F=ma and F=-kx

Then ma=-kx (by equating the forces.)

Which can be also written as ma+kx=0

or a+\frac{k}{m}x=0

or from here

that is in the form a=-\omega^2x

where \omega^2=\frac{k}{m}
 
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