Another amplitude and oscillation problem

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion revolves around calculating the time constant for the damping of oscillation in a lamppost after an earthquake. The initial amplitude is 6.5 cm, and after 8 seconds, it reduces to 1.8 cm. The participants seek to apply the standard equation for damped motion, which involves understanding the relationship between amplitude, time, and the time constant T. The key equations for solving the problem were not provided, indicating a need for clarity on the principles of damped harmonic motion.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of damped harmonic motion
  • Familiarity with the standard equation for damped oscillations
  • Basic knowledge of exponential decay functions
  • Ability to manipulate equations involving time constants
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the standard equation for damped motion, specifically the formula involving the time constant T
  • Study the principles of exponential decay in oscillatory systems
  • Learn how to calculate amplitude over time in damped oscillations
  • Explore examples of real-world applications of damped harmonic motion
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and oscillatory motion, as well as educators seeking to explain the concepts of damping in oscillations.

LBRRIT2390
Messages
29
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



A small earthquake starts a lamppost vibrating back and forth. The amplitude of the vibration of the top of the lamppost is 6.5 cm at the moment the quake stops, and 8.0 seconds later it is 1.8 cm.

A. What is the time constant for the damping of the oscillation? _____ seconds

B. What was the amplitude of the oscillation 4.0 s after the quake stopped? _____ cm


Homework Equations



A. ?

B. ?


The Attempt at a Solution



Don't know where to start :confused:
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Hi LBRRIT2390! :smile:

What is the standard equation for damped motion with time constant T?
 
I honestly have no idea
 
What do you know about damped motion, then? :confused:
 
The book claims the answer is that all the magnitudes are the same because "the gravitational force on the penguin is the same". I'm having trouble understanding this. I thought the buoyant force was equal to the weight of the fluid displaced. Weight depends on mass which depends on density. Therefore, due to the differing densities the buoyant force will be different in each case? Is this incorrect?

Similar threads

  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
5K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • · Replies 37 ·
2
Replies
37
Views
4K
Replies
3
Views
987
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • · Replies 21 ·
Replies
21
Views
5K
Replies
9
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
2K