The discussion focuses on calculating the mass density of a metal cylinder that floats in mercury and undergoes vertical oscillation. Given the height of the cylinder at 14 cm and the period of oscillation at 0.6 seconds, the density of mercury is established as 13600 kg/m³. To solve for the cylinder's density, participants suggest starting with a diagram to visualize the displacement from equilibrium and then formulating an equation for the cylinder's acceleration during oscillation.
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Start with a diagram showing the cylinder at some displacement from equilibrium.dobbygenius said:Homework Statement:: A metal cylinder with a height of 14 cm floats in mercury so that it undergoes a vertical oscillation with a period of 0.6 s. What is the mass density of the cylinder?
Relevant Equations:: density of mercury: 13600 kg/m^3
I'm not sure where to start...