How Do You Calculate Frequency and Period in Simple Harmonic Motion?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating frequency and period in simple harmonic motion (SHM) using the equations T = 2π/ω and f = 1/T. The user initially miscalculates the period T as 6.58 seconds and frequency f as 0.15 Hz, which are incorrect due to a misunderstanding of the angular frequency ω. The correct angular frequency from the position equation x = (4.00 m) cos(3.00πt + π) is ω = 3π rad/s, leading to T = 2/3 seconds and f = 1.5 Hz. Additionally, the user seeks clarification on the phase constant θ and the relationship between angular frequency, force constant, and mass in SHM.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of simple harmonic motion (SHM) concepts
  • Familiarity with angular frequency (ω) and its calculation
  • Knowledge of the relationship between force constant (k), mass (m), and angular frequency in SHM
  • Ability to manipulate trigonometric equations for SHM analysis
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of angular frequency from the force constant and mass in SHM
  • Learn how to determine the phase constant θ in SHM equations
  • Explore the implications of amplitude and initial conditions on SHM motion
  • Practice solving SHM problems involving different initial displacements and velocities
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and oscillations, as well as educators looking for examples of SHM calculations and concepts.

Paymemoney
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Hi
I have a few questions i need some help on.

Homework Statement


The position of a particle is given by the expression x=(4.00m) cos(3.00\pit+\pi), where x is in meters and t in seconds. Determine (a) the frequency and period of the motion.

Homework Equations


f=\frac{1}{T}

T=\frac{2\pi}{\omega}

The Attempt at a Solution



i got:

T=\frac{2\pi}{\omega}

T=\frac{2\pi}{3\pi}

T=6.58s

f=\frac{1}{6.5797}

f=0.15Hz

This is incorrect according to book's answer, what is wrong?

Homework Statement


A 0.500kg object attached to a spring with a force constant of 8.00N/m vibrates in simple harmonic motion with an amplitude of 10.0cm. Calculate time it takes the object to move from x=+8.0cm (just after it is released at x=+10cm) to x=0.

The Attempt at a Solution


i tried to use this formula: x=Acos(kt+\theta), however i cannot find t because there is two unknowns.

Instead what should i use?


P.S
 
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Paymemoney said:
The position of a particle is given by the expression x=(4.00m) cos(3.00\pit+\pi), where x is in meters and t in seconds.

t does not appear in the formula!

Paymemoney said:
A 0.500kg object attached to a spring with a force constant of 8.00N/m vibrates in simple harmonic motion with an amplitude of 10.0cm. Calculate time it takes the object to move from x=+8.0cm (just after it is released at x=+10cm) to x=0.

The Attempt at a Solution


i tried to use this formula: x=Acos(kt+\theta), however i cannot find t because there is two unknowns.



What is k? is it the angular frequency? If so, how is the angular frequency of the vibration related to the force constant and mass?

If the object is released at x=10 cm which is the maximum displacement, what is the value of the phase constant theta?

ehild
 
oops let me write it out again:

x=Acos(\omega t + \theta)

this is the correct equation i used

so i sub in values and i get two unknowns

8 = 10cos(4t+ \theta)
 
The time is measured from the instant when the object is released. The object is released when x=10. So what is the value of theta?

ehild
 
ok so this is what i have done:

x=Acos(\omega t + \theta)

x = 10cm, A = 10cm, \omega = 4m/s t = ? \theta = 0.93 degrees

10 = 10cos(4t + 0.93)

10 = 10cos(4t) +10cos(0.93)

10 - 10cos(0.93) = 10cos4t

t = \frac{arccos\frac{10-10cos(0.93)}{10}}{4}

t = 0.289 s
 
Could anyone tell me what is the problem with my first question??
 
Paymemoney said:
T=\frac{2\pi}{\omega}

T=\frac{2\pi}{3\pi}

T=6.58s

f=\frac{1}{6.5797}

f=0.15Hz

This is incorrect according to book's answer, what is wrong?

T=\frac{2\pi}{3\pi} reduces down to 2/3 which is not equal to 6.58.
 

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