Finding Velocity in Simple Harmonic Motion

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding velocity in the context of simple harmonic motion, specifically through the analysis of position functions given in cosine form. Participants are exploring concepts related to frequency, period, and the behavior of oscillating particles.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to determine frequency and period from position functions, with some expressing confusion about trigonometric concepts necessary for solving the problems. Others are discussing how to find specific times when the particle reaches certain positions.

Discussion Status

The discussion includes various attempts to clarify the relationship between position, frequency, and time in simple harmonic motion. Some participants have provided guidance on finding x-intercepts and understanding the implications of the position function, while others express a lack of foundational knowledge in trigonometry that is affecting their progress.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted absence of trigonometric knowledge among some participants, which may be limiting their ability to fully engage with the problems presented. The original poster's request for help indicates a struggle with new material in AP Physics, suggesting that the discussion is taking place in a learning context with imposed educational constraints.

MRMooneyham
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The position of a particle is given by x = (6.6)cos(4.1t) where t is in seconds. The frequency of the particle's oscillation is ____ Hz.



I am completely at lost for this, its a new chapter in ap physics, and i don't understand it at all, my teacher is really busy so can someone explain it to me please?
 
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If you recall, the frequency is simply 1/T, where T is the period. Do you remember how to find the period of a sin/cos function (from trigonometry)?
 
nope sorry, I've never taken trig sadly
 
Never mind, i figured it out on my own
 
The position of a particle is given by x = (7.4)cos(5.8t) where t is in seconds. The particle will arrive at the equilibrium position for the first time ____ seconds after t = 0.

though if i could get some help with this...
 
Okay, well the x-axis is the position of the object/particle. You simply have to find the first time that the graph of x(t) = 0. Essentially it is asking you to find an x-intercept.
 
MRMooneyham said:
nope sorry, I've never taken trig sadly

I can't imagine why you would attempt to take AP physics without having taken trigonometry. Trig is absolutely essential for vector math in physics, which you will undoubtedly be presented with during your first physics course. Take trigonometry ASAP if you plan to learn physics.
 
I've hit another block with these kinds of problems
A particle of mass m begins at rest at time t = 0 from x = 7.9 meters and oscillates about its equilibrium position at x = 0 with a period of 5 seconds. If the position function is of the form



then the particle's velocity will be ______ m/s when t = 48 seconds.
 

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