Harmonic motion, finding analytic expressions for constants

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on deriving analytic expressions for the amplitude A and phase phi in harmonic motion equations. The equations x(t) = Acos(omega*t + phi) and x(t) = Ccos(omega*t) + Ssin(omega*t) are used to relate constants C and S to A and phi. The user initially identifies relationships C = Acos(phi), S = -Asin(phi), and C^2 + S^2 = A^2. After some confusion, the user successfully resolves the problem. The key takeaway is the transformation of constants between the two forms of the harmonic motion equation.
Linus Pauling
Messages
187
Reaction score
0
1. Find analytic expressions for the arbitrary constants A and phi in Equation 1 (found in Part A) in terms of the constants C and S in Equation 2 (found in Part B), which are now considered as given parameters.
Express the amplitude A and phase phi (separated by a comma) in terms of C and S.




2. x(t) = Acos(omega*t + phi_
x(t) = Ccos(omega*t) + Ssin(omega*t)




3. I have found the following:

C = Acos(phi)
S = -Asin(phi)
C^2 + S^2 = A^2

And I am lost at this point.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Nevermind, I figured it out.
 
Thread 'Collision of a bullet on a rod-string system: query'
In this question, I have a question. I am NOT trying to solve it, but it is just a conceptual question. Consider the point on the rod, which connects the string and the rod. My question: just before and after the collision, is ANGULAR momentum CONSERVED about this point? Lets call the point which connects the string and rod as P. Why am I asking this? : it is clear from the scenario that the point of concern, which connects the string and the rod, moves in a circular path due to the string...
Back
Top