Calculating Speed in Simple Harmonic Motion

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the speed of a mass in simple harmonic motion, specifically using the position function of a mass oscillating on a spring. The original poster expresses confusion regarding the parameters of the problem and the application of the relevant equations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to substitute values into the velocity equation derived from the position function but questions the interpretation of the angular frequency. Participants inquire about the calculations leading to the original speed result and discuss the correct use of angular speed versus frequency.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, exploring different interpretations of the parameters involved. Some guidance has been offered regarding the calculations, and there is a recognition of the distinction between speed and velocity in the context of the problem.

Contextual Notes

There is some uncertainty regarding the correct interpretation of the angular speed and frequency, as well as the proper application of the velocity equation. The original poster also notes a lack of clarity in the textbook regarding these concepts.

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[SOLVED] Simple Harmonic Motion

This is the question I was given on my assignment, I can't seem to get it, bad prof so I am trying to teach all of this to myself, but this stuff is a bit confusing. From what I have tried and gather from examples in mt text, sub in .120s and solve but that is not working.

The position of a mass that is oscillating on a spring is given by (14.0cm)cos[(18.0s^-1)t].
What is the speed of the mass when t = 0.120 s?

Also, I don't think 18.0s^-1 is angular speed, I think its frequency but the book has nothing in it about it, got that from google.

I am looking for a step in the right direction in solving this one, the equation I am using are:

v = -wAsin(wt + theta)

The solution I am getting is -13.4 m/s which is not right, any help would be great. Thanks.
 
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Can you show how you got the -13.4 m/s? Are you working in radian mode on your calculator?
 
Yeah, I am working in radian mode, this is going under what I was assuming the 18.0s^-1 is frequency so I converted it using:

w = f2(pi)

and then used that in the velocity equation, I don't think that's right, but just using the 18 as w doesn't work either.
 
I think the 18 s^-1 is the angular speed. Can you show what answer you get when you use 18?
 
V = -(18 * .14)sin(18 * .120)
= -(2.52)sin(2.16)
= -(2.52)(.83138)
= -2.095 m/s

That answer is not right either.
 
Yeah, I got it after, I was forgetting speed is a scaler so leaving out the negative solved the problem, thanks for your help.
 

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