Find position after t for simple harmonic motion

AI Thread Summary
A 28.0 kg block on a frictionless air track is pushed to x=0.350 m and released, initiating simple harmonic motion with a period of 4.70 s. The position of the mass after 3.854 s was initially calculated using the sine function, but the correct approach requires a phase angle or using cosine for accurate results. The spring constant k was determined to be 3.92, and the amplitude A is given as 0.35 m. The maximum acceleration can be calculated using the formula a=omega^2*cos(omega*t). The discussion highlights the importance of correctly applying the formulas for position and acceleration in simple harmonic motion.
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A 28.0 kg block at rest on a horizontal frictionless air track is connected to the wall via a spring. The equilibrium position of the mass is defined to be at x=0. Somebody pushes the mass to the position x= 0.350 m, then let's go. The mass undergoes simple harmonic motion with a period of 4.70 s. What is the position of the mass 3.854 s after the mass is released?

T=2pi*sqrt m/k
KE1+PE1=KE2+PE2 from this you get mv^2=KA^2
x=Asin *omega*t
omega=2pi*frequency
frequency =1/T

I used the first equation get k=3.92
then I use that k in the second equation, but I don't know how to get v to then get A. Any help? Would I then take that A and plug it into the third equation to get my X?
 
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In the given problem the amplitude A is given. ( 0.35 m). Find x.
 
So I plugged in A (.35m) into the equation,
x=.35sin(1.34*3.854) and got x=.032 which is still incorrect? Any help on where I am going wrong?
The second part of this problem calls for the maximum acceleration- would I use the equation a=omega^2cos omega *t? I don't think that I will get this problem correct if I got the last one incorrect.
 
Your formula for posistion does not work at t=0! You need a phase angle in it, or use cosine instead of sine.
 
I figured this problem out. Thank you!
 
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