Finding the differential equation for a oscillating system

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the differential equation for an oscillating system, specifically addressing the forces and moments involved in the system's dynamics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants express confusion regarding the presence of a constant term in their equations, questioning whether their expressions for moments are correct. There is a focus on the implications of small angle approximations and the terms derived from them.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively seeking clarification on their approaches and the reasoning behind the constant term in their calculations. Some have attempted the problem using different methods but remain uncertain about the correctness of their results.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of specific assumptions related to small angle approximations and the need for clarity on the distances involved in the calculations.

JustinLiang
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Homework Statement


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The Attempt at a Solution


I don't think this is the correct answer because for some reason I have a constant mg term. Usually I get mgsinθ and from small angle approximations it becomes mgθ, but this time I am getting mgcosθ and from small angle approximations it becomes mg.

9WE42.png


What am I doing wrong? Or is this correct?
 
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I don't see the distances in your expressions for the moments.
 
haruspex said:
I don't see the distances in your expressions for the moments.

I just tried this question and did it with the distances, but I also don't understand why there is a constant term. That term is throwing me off.
 
theBEAST said:
I just tried this question and did it with the distances, but I also don't understand why there is a constant term. That term is throwing me off.
Please post your working if you'd like further assistance.
 

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