Calculating Amplitude for a Spring Oscillation with Hooke's Law

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the amplitude of oscillation for a spring system using Hooke's Law. The original poster describes a scenario involving a 2 kg block attached to a spring, with a specified amount of energy supplied to stretch the spring and a given oscillation period.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss relevant equations related to spring motion, including those for energy, force, and period. There are attempts to derive the spring constant and initial displacement from the given energy and period.

Discussion Status

Several participants have provided guidance on the equations to use and the relationships between variables. There is an ongoing exploration of the calculations needed to find the amplitude, with some participants questioning their own results and clarifying the definitions of amplitude in the context of simple harmonic motion.

Contextual Notes

Participants note potential confusion regarding the definitions of amplitude (peak-to-peak versus maximum displacement) and the algebraic manipulations required to derive the necessary values. There are references to specific numerical results that have led to discrepancies in understanding.

  • #31


Okay, I redid it using the new equation. I think I got the same things you did, which is good. :) But my question is: are we doubling it for the same reason we did before? (A = 2x)
 
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  • #32


Dark Visitor said:
Okay, I redid it using the new equation. I think I got the same things you did, which is good. :) But my question is: are we doubling it for the same reason we did before? (A = 2x)

There are many kinds of amplitude: peak-to-peak and what is being used here as in

A cos(wt). Apparently they just want A. Whew glad that's over. I'm going to leave you in the good hands of whomever for the last problem before I kill us both with confusion. :biggrin:

BTW, the equation is the same, just more legible by taking out the extra divisor sign which is what led to the bunged algebra. Don't feel bad, do it all the time myself.
 
  • #33


Okay, I think I can get that one eventually. There is a guy on there helping me now, so thanks to both of you for your help. I know it was a pain in the butt. But I appreciate it. :approve:
 

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