How to derive the equations of oscillation

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the derivation of second-order equations for simple harmonic motion (SHM) and the understanding of the parameters involved, specifically the angular frequency (ω) and phase angle (∅). Participants explore the mathematical foundations and reasoning behind the solutions to the differential equations governing SHM.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about deriving the second-order equation for SHM and the origins of ω and ∅ in the solution x(t) = A cos(ωt + ∅).
  • Another participant confirms the correct derivation of the second-order ordinary differential equation (ODE) m\ddot{x} + kx = 0 and suggests that solutions must have the same form as the original function, indicating that trigonometric functions are valid solutions.
  • A different participant explains that ω and θ arise from the general form of sinusoidal functions and can be determined by substituting x(t) into the ODE.
  • One participant references external resources, such as Wikipedia, for standard methods of solving linear differential equations, including the simple harmonic oscillator.
  • Another participant comments on the nature of differential equations, noting that solutions often require an understanding of the expected form of the answer and that constants in the solution depend on initial conditions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the form of the second-order ODE and the validity of trigonometric functions as solutions. However, there is no consensus on the clarity of the derivation process or the understanding of the parameters involved, as some participants express confusion and seek further clarification.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the participants' varying levels of familiarity with differential equations and the assumptions underlying the derivation process, which may not be fully articulated in the discussion.

HARI A
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I am new to this site.
I have a problem with the derivations of second order equations for SHM.
F= -kx
F+kx+0;ma+kx=0
m(second time derivative of x)+k(first time derivative of x)=0
As my textbook says above equation implies that x(t)=Acos(ωt+∅)
But I can't understand why. From where did they get those ω,∅ and cosine function.
Please help
 
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You derived the second-order ODE right: m\ddot{x} + kx = 0. This yields the equation \ddot{x}= - \left ( \frac{k}{m} \right ) x. Only functions whose second derivative have the same form as the original function are valid solutions. Exponentials and trigonometric functions fit this description (Euler's identity shows how they are related). Thus, x(t) = A \cos{(ωt-θ)} is a valid solution. Substitute it into the ODE and see for yourself.
 
I didn't see the other part to your post. The ω and θ just come from the general form of a sinusoidal function. You can solve for them by substituting x(t) into your ODE and solving for them. ω = \sqrt{k/m} and θ is the phase angle, which is a way of accounting for the fact that SHM might not start from a rest position.
 
HARI A said:
m(second time derivative of x)+k(first time derivative of x)=0
As my textbook says above equation implies that x(t)=Acos(ωt+∅)
But I can't understand why. From where did they get those ω,∅ and cosine function.
Please help

This is an example of a linear differential equation. There are standard methods for solving them, which you can find e.g. on Wikipedia, which even gives the simple harmonic oscillator as an example:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Linear_differential_equation#Simple_harmonic_oscillator

Or you can look in any introductory textbook on differential equations, which will have more details about the method.
 
HARI A said:
From where did they get those ω,∅ and cosine function.
Please help

This is the annoying thing about differential equations. :biggrin: You often have to start, knowing what sort of answer you are likely to get. In this case, you need the answer to be in the form of a function for which the second time derivative is linearly related to that function. We know that differentiating Sin(x) twice gives you -Sin(x) so that a Sin function can fit as a solution (and so can a Cos function) Because of the integration involved in solving the equation, there are other constants that come into the solution and their actual values will depend upon the 'initial conditions.

But Maths is always a bit like that, isn't it? Why multiply both sides by x? Why take Logs? Why subtract those two simultaneous equations? I'm sure you've already been there and that you already know some of the tricks.
 

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