Find amplitude with SHM (Simple Harmonic Motion)

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on solving a three-part homework question related to Simple Harmonic Motion (SHM). The first two parts correctly identify the frequency as 2 Hz and the period as 0.5 seconds. The third part involves determining the amplitude, which is clarified as half of the total distance of 10 cm, resulting in an amplitude of 5 cm. The importance of distinguishing between amplitude and peak-to-peak amplitude is emphasized. The participant successfully completes the final problem with assistance from the forum.
kamiquazi
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Homework Statement


It is a three part question in which I have successfully answered the first two of the questions.
Part. 1
A weight suspended from a spring is seen to bob up and down over a distance of 10 cm twice each second.
What is the frequency? 2 Hz is the correct answer.
Answer in the units of Hz.

Part. 2
What is the period?
Answe in the units of s. 0.5 s is the correct answer.

Part. 3
What is the amplitude?
Answer in the units of cm.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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What is the definition of amplitude?
 
kuruman said:
What is the definition of amplitude?

Quoted from Wikipedia, "Amplitude is the magnitude of change in the oscillating variable, with each oscillation, within an oscillating system. "

Outside of that I do not have a single clue as the instructor has not mentioned amplitude.
 
kamiquazi said:
A weight suspended from a spring is seen to bob up and down over a distance of 10 cm twice each second.
I suggest that you go back to wikipedia and read about peak-to-peak amplitude. Is the 10 cm you are given the amplitude or the peak-to-peak amplitude?
 
If the total distance covered by the weight while bobbing up and down is 10cm then magnitude of the amplitude is half the total distance that is 5cm.
 
You got it.
 
kuruman said:
I suggest that you go back to wikipedia and read about peak-to-peak amplitude. Is the 10 cm you are given the amplitude or the peak-to-peak amplitude?

After rereading what I quoted from Wikipedia and reread the article I did complete the final problem. I want to thank you for your help!
 
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