Finding the angular frequency of an object

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding the angular frequency of an object undergoing simple harmonic motion, given its period and amplitude. The original poster presents the equation of motion and attempts to calculate the angular frequency using the provided period.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster calculates the angular frequency using the formula ω = 2π/T and expresses concern about the correctness of their answer. Some participants discuss the dimensionality of the units used in the answer and suggest alternative forms for submission.

Discussion Status

The discussion includes attempts to clarify the correct format for the answer and the dimensionality of angular frequency. Participants explore different interpretations of the submission requirements without reaching a definitive consensus on the best approach.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of submission requirements that specify the answer must be in decimal format, and some confusion regarding the dimensionality of radians as a unit. The original poster's calculations and the feedback received from the submission system are also noted.

t.kirschner99
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Homework Statement


An object undergoes simple harmonic motion along an x-axis with a period of 0.50s and amplitude of 29mm. Its position is x = 12mm when t = 0s. Determine the value of ω in the equation of motion. Suppose that ω > 0.

Homework Equations



$$ω = \frac {2π} {T}$$

The Attempt at a Solution



Earlier in the problem, I found that x(t) = Asin(ωt + ∅i) (which is confirmed correct). The question is asking for the angular frequency of an object going simple harmonic motion (no damping), so I am assuming I would need to just plug the period into the formula above. Thus:

$$ω = \frac {2π} {0.5s}.$$
$$= 12.57 \frac {rad} {s}$$

When I submit this answer though, it says it is incorrect. I've tried entering the solution as 4π rad/s (which it said the answer needed to be in decimal format) and 13 rad/s (which it said that the answer does not have the correct dimensions).
 
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t.kirschner99 said:
When I submit this answer though, it says it is incorrect. I've tried entering the solution as 4π rad/s (which it said the answer needed to be in decimal format) and 13 rad/s (which it said that the answer does not have the correct dimensions).
You don't say specifically, but it sounds like when you submitted 12.57rad/s it did not complain about the dimensions. If so, that suggests it is happy with the 13 as the numeric value.
Although the radian is a unit, most authorities maintain angles do not have dimension. You could try 13s-1.
 
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haruspex said:
You don't say specifically, but it sounds like when you submitted 12.57rad/s it did not complain about the dimensions. If so, that suggests it is happy with the 13 as the numeric value.
Although the radian is a unit, most authorities maintain angles do not have dimension. You could try 13s-1.

Thank you! 13s-1 was the correct answer.
 

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