Frequency of oscillation for a hanging mass on a spring?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the frequency of oscillation for a mass hanging from a spring, specifically a 0.54 kg mass with a spring constant of 75 N/m. The original poster is exploring how the displacement of the mass affects the frequency of oscillation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to calculate the frequency of oscillation using the formula for the period of a mass-spring system but questions the role of displacement in this context. Participants discuss whether changes in displacement would affect the frequency and explore the implications of Hooke's law.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants questioning the relationship between displacement and frequency. Some guidance is provided regarding the nature of harmonic motion and the conditions under which Hooke's law applies, indicating a productive exploration of the topic.

Contextual Notes

Participants are considering the implications of large displacements on the applicability of Hooke's law, suggesting that nonlinear effects may arise in such cases. The original poster notes that this is a multiple-choice question, adding a layer of uncertainty regarding the correctness of their calculations.

subopolois
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Homework Statement


0.54 kg mass hang vertically from a spring with k= 75 Nm. If the mass is displaced 3 cm vertically and allowed to oscillate, what is the frequency of oscillation?

Homework Equations


T= 2(pi) ((sqrt)(m/K))
F= 1/T

The Attempt at a Solution


T= 2(pi) ((sqrt)(0.54/75))
= 0.5331
F= 1/0.5331
= 1.9 Hz
Now I know I didnt use the displacement, but where would I use it? This was a multiple choice question, and 1.9 Hz is an option... I just don't know if its right
 
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I don't see any reason the initial displacement would affect the frequency of oscillation. Do you?
 
Thats kinda what I am asking...
if the displacement were greater or smaller of the mass, would it change the frequency of oscillation? And if it does, how?
 
Larger displacement mean larger force, larger acceleration and, finally, the same time. For this reason called 'harmonic'.
 
subopolois said:
Thats kinda what I am asking...
if the displacement were greater or smaller of the mass, would it change the frequency of oscillation? And if it does, how?
No, unless Hooke's law were to no longer apply at large displacements, in which case you'd have a nonlinear problem on your hands and believe me you want nothing to do with that.
 

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