How can I solve for the sines and cosines in a harmonic oscillation problem?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a harmonic oscillation problem, specifically focusing on the relationship between distances, forces, and the calculation of sine and cosine values related to the oscillation's equations. Participants are exploring how to derive the period of oscillation and the relevant trigonometric functions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss using energy theorems and relationships between forces and accelerations to derive equations for sine and cosine. There is mention of needing to find the period of oscillation and the theoretical value of D.

Discussion Status

Some participants have suggested looking at equations for simple harmonic motion (SHM) to find the necessary trigonometric values. There is an acknowledgment of the complexity of the problem, with multiple approaches being considered, including energetic methods and relationships between forces and accelerations.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about their current methods and the need for additional equations, particularly the energy equation, to progress further in solving the problem.

PhysicS FAN
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Homework Statement
An object of mass m=1kg is executing a simple harmonic oscillation. During its oscillation it passes from a point A at which the speed of the object is u=1m/s and the force that its acting on it is F=2N. When the object passes form point B is moving with a speed u'=2m/s and an acting force of F'=1N. What's the frequency of the oscillation and what's the biggest distance from the equivalence position.
Relevant Equations
T=2π/ω, ΔΚ= W, F=kd
First of all, I found a function of the distance of the object form the equivalence point in both cases. I got something like d=2d' where d is the distance at the first case and d' at the second. I did that because I wanted to find the frequency, and so first I need to find the period of oscillation. In order to find the period I need to know D ( T=2π √m/D ). I used energy theorems to get an other equation involving d and d' but I am stuck. I think that the problem is quite easy but I just can't get to the answer. Any Ideas?
 
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##F = ma## is one idea.
 
It looks tricky. Not easy. But, maybe if you look at the equations for SHM, you could find ##\cos(\omega t_A)## and ##\sin(\omega t_A)## etc.

That might help.
 
PeroK said:
It looks tricky. Not easy. But, maybe if you look at the equations for SHM, you could find ##\cos(\omega t_A)## and ##\sin(\omega t_A)## etc.

That might help.
Yes I'll try that
 
PhysicS FAN said:
Yes I'll try that
Well, I can't find anything that way. I think the best way to approach it is energetically since D theoritically could be found this way.
 
PhysicS FAN said:
Well, I can't find anything that way. I think the best way to approach it is energetically since D theoritically could be found this way.

It definitely comes out that way. You could start with the relationship between the forces implies the same relationship between the accelerations at ##A## and ##B##. So:

##\cos(\omega t_A) = 2\cos(\omega t_B)##

The relationship between the velocities gives you another equation for the sines. From these you should be able to solve for all the relevant sines and cosines.

You still need the energy equation and what you've got already. But, getting the value of the sines and cosines is key.
 
PeroK said:
It definitely comes out that way. You could start with the relationship between the forces implies the same relationship between the accelerations at ##A## and ##B##. So:

##\cos(\omega t_A) = 2\cos(\omega t_B)##

The relationship between the velocities gives you another equation for the sines. From these you should be able to solve for all the relevant sines and cosines.

You still need the energy equation and what you've got already. But, getting the value of the sines and cosines is key.
Thanks a lot you've been really helpful!
 

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