Harmonic Motion in One dimension -- Question in equation derivation

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the derivation of an equation related to harmonic motion, specifically focusing on the transition between two lines in the equation as presented in a textbook by Taylor. Participants express confusion regarding the steps omitted in the derivation and the implications of sign changes, with references to Euler's formula.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants question the reasoning behind the equality of the second and third lines in the equation, with one suggesting the use of the angle addition/subtraction formula for cosine. Others express uncertainty about the relevance of certain lines in the derivation and the implications of cosine properties.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the equation's derivation. Some guidance has been offered regarding the use of trigonometric identities, but no consensus has been reached on the necessity of all steps presented in the textbook.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of a specific textbook that is perceived to skip important steps, leading to confusion among participants. The discussion also highlights the potential relevance of Euler's formula in understanding the derivation.

Futurestar33
Messages
29
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


I am curious as to how the second line in the equation is equal to the third line in the equation. The book my class is using is Taylor and it just skips so many steps. What happens to the sign, I know this must relate to euler in some way I am just not sure how. Thank you
367-5-5P-i36.png

I am just curious as to why and how

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

 
Physics news on Phys.org
Futurestar33 said:

Homework Statement


I am curious as to how the second line in the equation is equal to the third line in the equation. The book my class is using is Taylor and it just skips so many steps. What happens to the sign, I know this must relate to euler in some way I am just not sure how. Thank you
367-5-5P-i36.png

I am just curious as to why and how

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

Hello Futurestar33. Welcome to PF !

Use angle addition/subtraction formula on cos(ωt - δ) .
 
I don't see why they include the second line, seems irrelevant since cos(theta) = cos(-theta)
 
Thank you guys
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 51 ·
2
Replies
51
Views
4K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
10K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K