Does this physics homework problem make sense?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a physics homework problem involving a 0.85 kg mass oscillating on a spring with a spring constant of 45 N/m. Participants clarify the calculation of angular frequency, force, acceleration, elastic potential energy, and kinetic energy at both maximum and equilibrium positions. The confusion arises from the problem's structure, where parts a-e relate to the maximum position and parts g-k pertain to the equilibrium position. The correct approach involves evaluating the forces and energies at the specified positions to avoid redundancy in calculations.

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  • Understanding of Hooke's Law and spring mechanics
  • Familiarity with oscillatory motion and angular frequency calculations
  • Knowledge of energy conservation principles in mechanical systems
  • Ability to apply Newton's second law in dynamic systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn how to calculate angular frequency using the formula ω = √(k/m)
  • Explore the relationship between force, mass, and acceleration in oscillatory systems
  • Study the concepts of elastic potential energy and kinetic energy in harmonic motion
  • Investigate the differences in energy states at maximum displacement versus equilibrium position
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and oscillatory motion, as well as educators looking for clarification on teaching these concepts effectively.

livblue23
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Homework Statement


A 0.85kg mass oscillating on a spring w/ spring constant of 45 N/m. How do i determine angular frequency?
A 0.85kg mass oscillating on a spring w/ spring constant of 45 N/m. This object reaches a maximum position of 12 cm from equilibrium. Determine:
a.) angular frequency of this mass
b.) force
c.) acceleration
d.) elastic potentional energy
e.) kinetic energy
Determine:
f.) velocity that it experiences at its maximum position.
Determine:
g.) force
h.) acceleration
i.) potential elastic energy
j.) kinetic energy
k.) velocity that it experiences at the equilibrium position.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


okay so i got parts a through e, but for g through j... didnt i already answer those in b through e?
 
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Hi livblue23,

livblue23 said:

Homework Statement


A 0.85kg mass oscillating on a spring w/ spring constant of 45 N/m. How do i determine angular frequency?
A 0.85kg mass oscillating on a spring w/ spring constant of 45 N/m. This object reaches a maximum position of 12 cm from equilibrium. Determine:
a.) angular frequency of this mass
b.) force
c.) acceleration
d.) elastic potentional energy
e.) kinetic energy
Determine:
f.) velocity that it experiences at its maximum position.
Determine:
g.) force
h.) acceleration
i.) potential elastic energy
j.) kinetic energy
k.) velocity that it experiences at the equilibrium position.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


okay so i got parts a through e, but for g through j... didnt i already answer those in b through e?

I could be wrong (having the word Determine appear right before f is a bit confusing), but do they mean to evaluate b-f at the maximum position, and g-k at the equilibrium position?
 
There are two statements in the problem. a to e is related to the first statement. The rest for second statement. Try.
 

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