Frequency of a simple harmonic oscillator

In summary, the question asks for the characteristic frequency of a simple harmonic oscillator with a mass of 1 kg and a spring constant of 10 N/m. The relevant equations are Hooke's law (F=-ky) and \omega^{2} = K/M, and the characteristic frequency can be found by solving for \omega = 2 \cdot \pi \cdot f. Some guidance and resources, such as the textbook and class notes, can help with finding the solution.
  • #1
AdrianHudson
48
2

Homework Statement



Consider a mass hanging from an ideal spring. Assume the mass is equal to 1 kg and the spring constant is 10 N/m. What is the characteristic frequency of this simple harmonic oscillator?

Homework Equations


No idea I think Hookes law
F=-ky
Some other relevant equations?
[itex]\omega^{2}[/itex] = K/M

The Attempt at a Solution


No idea where to start. Some guidance on steps would be helpful! thanks
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Also note that [itex] \omega = 2 \cdot \pi \cdot f [/itex]. You now have all the tools, just solve!
 
  • #3
AdrianHudson said:

Homework Statement



Consider a mass hanging from an ideal spring. Assume the mass is equal to 1 kg and the spring constant is 10 N/m. What is the characteristic frequency of this simple harmonic oscillator?

Homework Equations


No idea I think Hookes law
F=-ky
Some other relevant equations?
[itex]\omega^{2}[/itex] = K/M

The Attempt at a Solution


No idea where to start. Some guidance on steps would be helpful! thanks

You must show some effort before we can be of much tutorial help. Look at your textbook and class notes -- they should contain the material about spring-mass oscillation. You can also look at this wikipedia page:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Simple_harmonic_motion

That should get you going. Please show us your work.
 

1. What is a simple harmonic oscillator?

A simple harmonic oscillator is a system or object that moves back and forth between two points in a regular and predictable manner. It follows the principles of harmonic motion, where the force acting on the object is directly proportional to its displacement from its equilibrium position.

2. How is the frequency of a simple harmonic oscillator calculated?

The frequency of a simple harmonic oscillator is calculated using the equation f = 1/(2π√(k/m)), where f is the frequency in hertz (Hz), k is the spring constant of the oscillator, and m is the mass of the object attached to the spring.

3. What factors affect the frequency of a simple harmonic oscillator?

The frequency of a simple harmonic oscillator is affected by the mass of the object attached to the spring, the spring constant of the oscillator, and the amplitude of the oscillation. It is also influenced by external factors such as friction and air resistance.

4. How does the frequency of a simple harmonic oscillator change with increasing mass?

As the mass of the object attached to the spring increases, the frequency of the simple harmonic oscillator decreases. This is because a heavier object requires a greater force to achieve the same amplitude of oscillation, resulting in a lower frequency.

5. Can the frequency of a simple harmonic oscillator be changed?

Yes, the frequency of a simple harmonic oscillator can be changed by altering its mass, spring constant, or amplitude of oscillation. External factors such as friction and air resistance can also affect the frequency. Additionally, changing the length of the spring or the gravitational pull can also impact the frequency of the oscillator.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
13
Views
628
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
772
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
537
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
18
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
16
Views
399
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
10
Views
1K
  • Classical Physics
Replies
1
Views
611
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
738
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
1K
Back
Top