Calculating Time for Simple Harmonic Motion - \pi

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the time for a block in Simple Harmonic Motion (SHM) to move from x=0 m to x=0.06 m, given a period (T) of 4.0 seconds and an amplitude (A) of 0.1 m. The angular frequency (w) is determined to be π/2 using the formula w=2π/T. Two potential solutions arise from the equation 0.06=0.1cos((π/2)t - π/2), yielding times of 1.59 seconds and 0.41 seconds. The correct answer is 0.41 seconds, as it represents the first instance the block reaches x=0.06 m after t=0.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Simple Harmonic Motion (SHM)
  • Familiarity with trigonometric functions and their applications in physics
  • Knowledge of angular frequency and its calculation
  • Ability to solve equations involving cosine and sine functions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and applications of the SHM equations, particularly x=Acos(wt + φ)
  • Learn about phase angles in SHM and their significance in motion analysis
  • Explore the use of sine functions in SHM, specifically x=Asin(wt + φ)
  • Investigate the concept of periodicity in SHM and how it affects motion over time
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and oscillatory motion, as well as educators seeking to clarify concepts related to Simple Harmonic Motion.

rhodium
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\piHi everyone,

I hope you can help me out with the following question. I am mainly confused about the sign

Homework Statement


A block in SHM with T= 4.0 s and A=0.1 m. How long does it take the object to move from x=0 m to x= 0.06 m.


Homework Equations


x=Acos(wt + \phi)
w=2pi/T

where T is period, w is angular frequency, phi is phase angle and A is amplitude.

The Attempt at a Solution



Using eq2, i solved for w, which is \pi/2.
Then I set eq1 equal to 0. The value of phi is thus + or - \pi/2. Since the object is assumed to be moving to the right (as it would have to if it wants to go from 0 to 0.06 m),. then we take the negative phase angle. Then, back to eq1, I put

0.06=0.1cos((\pi/2)t - \pi/2)

NOW, this is were my problem is.
Apparently, there are then two possible answers,

either 0.927 = (\pi/2)t - \pi/2, which gives 1.59 s
or - 0.927 = (\pi/2)t - \pi/2. which gives 0.41 s

Firstly, I don't understand when are we supposed to have a + and - option. Secondly, I don't trust the answer given, which is 0.41 s. Please help. :confused:
 
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rhodium said:

Homework Equations


x=Acos(wt + \phi)
w=2pi/T
Note that you can also use:
x=Asin(wt + \phi)
Which would eliminate the annoying phase factor, since x = 0 at t = 0:
x=Asin(wt)

0.06=0.1cos((\pi/2)t - \pi/2)

NOW, this is were my problem is.
Apparently, there are then two possible answers,

either 0.927 = (\pi/2)t - \pi/2, which gives 1.59 s
or - 0.927 = (\pi/2)t - \pi/2. which gives 0.41 s
Realize that you want the first solution after t = 0. Since t = 0 corresponds to θ = -π/2 = -1.57 radians, θ = -0.927 radians is the first solution. The +0.927 solution corresponds to the block being at x = 0.06 but going to the left. (Since the block goes back and forth, there are an infinite number of times that it's at x = 0.06; you want the first time it reaches that point.)
 

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