Calculating the Period of a Simple Harmonic Oscillator with a Pivoted Metal Rod

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the period of oscillation for a pivoted metal rod, specifically focusing on the dynamics of simple harmonic motion and the effects of pivot location on the period. The original poster presents a scenario involving a metal rod of a specified length and mass, seeking to determine its oscillation period when released from a small angle.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster considers modeling the rod as a point mass about its center of mass and applies a formula for the period of oscillation. Some participants question the validity of this approach, suggesting that it oversimplifies the situation. There are discussions about the role of torque and angular momentum, with one participant expressing confusion regarding the distinction between angular frequency and angular velocity in the context of simple harmonic motion.

Discussion Status

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating assumptions about the pivot point's effect on the period and the appropriateness of using certain formulas. There is also a noted confusion about the symbols used in the context of torque and angular motion, which may affect the clarity of the discussion.

MMONISM
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Homework Statement


A L = 1.48 m long metal rod is pivoted from a point one third of the way along its length. The rod has a mass of 0.208 kg. What period will the rod oscillate with when released from a small angle?

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Homework Equations


T = 2 \pi \sqrt{\frac{L}{g}}

The Attempt at a Solution


should I think the rod as a point mass about it's centre mass? and use centre mass to calculate the period by the formula?
This is my approach:
\frac{1}{2}L-\frac{1}{3}L is the length of the string
T = 2 \pi \sqrt{\frac{L}{g}} = 2 \pi \sqrt{\frac{\frac{L}{6}}{g}} = 2 \pi \sqrt{0.025} = 0.997 s
Could someone give me some advice please?
 
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That approach is too simple. Consider a rod pivoted very close to the center of mass - your formula would give a very short period, but the actual period would be very long.

Think of torque and angular momentum.
 
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mfb said:
That approach is too simple. Consider a rod pivoted very close to the center of mass - your formula would give a very short period, but the actual period would be very long.

Think of torque and angular momentum.

Thank you for your reply, and this is my new approach:
distance from pivot to centre mass is L/6
torque(mg) = sin(theta)*(L/6)*mg
also torque = I*angular acceleration.
I am confused here, as w in simple harmonic motion is angular frequency and in the torque formula it is angular velocity? are they the same?
 
MMONISM said:
I am confused here, as w in simple harmonic motion is angular frequency and in the torque formula it is angular velocity? are they the same?
They are not, and I don't see where an ##\omega## would appear in the formula for torque. In general: if you would get the same symbol for different meanings, use a different symbol or indices (point 4 here).
 

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