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

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating frequency and period in simple harmonic motion (SHM) based on given mathematical expressions for particle position. Participants are examining the relationships between angular frequency, period, and frequency, as well as addressing specific scenarios involving a mass-spring system.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • One participant attempts to calculate the period and frequency from the expression for position but questions the correctness of their results based on a reference answer. Another participant raises questions about the meaning of variables in the equations and the relationship between angular frequency, force constant, and mass. There is also discussion about determining the phase constant in relation to maximum displacement.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively exploring different aspects of the problems presented. Some have provided calculations and expressed confusion about discrepancies with expected answers. Others are questioning the definitions and relationships of variables involved in SHM, indicating a productive exploration of the concepts.

Contextual Notes

There are indications of potential misunderstandings regarding the application of formulas and the interpretation of variables such as angular frequency and phase constant. Some participants express uncertainty about the setup of the problems, particularly in relation to the initial conditions of the motion.

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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