Finding the Spring constant without knowing the mass

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the frequency of oscillation for a spring system when the mass is unknown. The key formula for frequency is identified as f = 1/2π * √(K/M). Participants clarify that it is unnecessary to know the individual values of the spring constant (k) or mass (m) to determine frequency, as the ratio k/m can be derived from the relationship k = mg/x, where x is the displacement of the spring. This insight allows for the calculation of frequency based solely on the spring's displacement and gravitational acceleration.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Hooke's Law and spring mechanics
  • Familiarity with basic physics concepts such as mass, force, and acceleration
  • Knowledge of oscillatory motion and frequency calculations
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the derivation of the spring constant using Hooke's Law
  • Learn about the relationship between mass, spring constant, and frequency in oscillatory systems
  • Explore examples of simple harmonic motion and its applications
  • Study the effects of damping and external forces on oscillation frequency
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Physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of oscillatory motion and spring dynamics.

Northyellow
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1. A spring is hung from the ceiling. When a block is attached to its end, it stretches 2.0 cm before reaching its new equilibrium length. The block is then pulled down slightly and released. what is the frequency of the oscillation?



2. The frequency is found by f= 1/2\pi *\sqrt{K/M}

So I guess the first thing to do is finding the spring constant: k = mg/x
This is the only formula I know for it, how can I find it if there is no given mass?



3. I can't really get past that, I just feel like I'm stuck as I don't know how to find the
spring constant without knowing the mass of the block...
Any hints are greatly appriciated,
 
Last edited:
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Northyellow said:
2. The frequency is found by f= 1/2\pi *\sqrt{K/M}

So I guess the first thing to do is finding the spring constant: k = mg/x
This is the only formula I know for it, how can I find it if there is no given mass?


You don't really need to find k or m in order to find the frequency; the frquency depends on (k/m) and surely you can find (k/m) from the relation k=mg/x right?:wink:
 
Thank you very much, did not see that.

That was really helpful, and I think I got the correct answer now. :)

thank you again :)
 
Last edited:

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