Forced Oscillator with unfamiliar forcing function and constants

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around solving a forced oscillator problem with a specific external force and damping characteristics. Participants highlight the need to establish the equation of motion correctly, noting that the initial formulation was dimensionally inconsistent. The nature of the damping is determined to be underdamped based on the relationships between the damping coefficient and the spring constant. Suggestions include using the method of undetermined coefficients for finding a particular solution and recognizing that the steady-state response can be approximated as a constant force after initial transients. Overall, the focus is on deriving the motion equation and understanding the system's behavior over time.
  • #51
rude man said:
If you're an undergraduate in physics though, you will probably have to live with the classical claptrap. So let our Worthies show you the way, which they're very good at, apparently.

Yep, physics undergrad. I'm working towards industry though so my education won't be as mathematically rigorous as many of my peers although I do have a great many hoops to jump through.
 
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  • #52
oddjobmj said:
Yep, physics undergrad. I'm working towards industry though so my education won't be as mathematically rigorous as many of my peers although I do have a great many hoops to jump through.

You'll be fine. You've shown more interest and perseverance than 90% of our OP's.

And you'll learn to take advantage of all the software out there, like Wolfram Alpha, which makes solving problems a jiff. For the moment you just need to 'go with the flow' i.e. pass those courses, most of which material you won't ever need!
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