How Is Simple Harmonic motion possible here?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the mechanics of simple harmonic motion (SHM), specifically addressing the conservation of amplitude and the forces acting on a mass in SHM. Participants explore the implications of different forces on either side of the motion and the relationship between force, displacement, and energy conservation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions how amplitude is conserved when different forces act on either side of the mass in SHM.
  • Another participant inquires about the net force as a function of displacement, suggesting that the net force is proportional to the sum of two spring constants (K1 + K2).
  • A participant notes that the net force behaves like an even function when the mass is displaced and released, implying symmetry in the force acting on the mass.
  • Some participants propose that the force experienced by the mass can be equated to that of a single spring with an effective spring constant of K1 + K2.
  • One participant expresses curiosity about the relationship between the symmetrical force and the repetition of velocity during oscillation, seeking further clarification on this aspect.
  • Another participant points out that the consistency of speed at the equilibrium point is due to energy conservation rather than the symmetry of the force.
  • A later reply acknowledges the role of energy conservation in explaining the observed behavior of the system.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying levels of understanding regarding the conservation of amplitude and the forces involved in SHM. While some agree on the role of energy conservation, others remain uncertain about the implications of different forces acting on the mass.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the complexities surrounding the conservation of amplitude and the effects of different forces, leaving some assumptions and dependencies on definitions unaddressed.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to students and enthusiasts of physics, particularly those exploring concepts related to simple harmonic motion, force dynamics, and energy conservation.

Hydrous Caperilla
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One thing I don't understand is that How Amplitude is conserved on both sides if the mass is subjected to different forces on either side of this shm...
 

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What is the net force as a function of displacement?
 
Dale said:
What is the net force as a function of displacement?

If I displace it towards left and then release it ,the net force will be F=(K1+K2)X towards right and then it will reach the equilibrium point and then again experience (K1+K2)X towards left which seems awfully like an even function to me
 
So this is the exact same force as for a mass attached to a single spring with a spring constant k=K1+K2
 
Dale said:
So this is the exact same force as for a mass attached to a single spring with a spring constant k=K1+K2

Kay Makes Sense to Me somewhat...Is that the reason that velocity is also repeated.ie the mean velocity is same after oscillating from mean to left and then coming to mean once again...Can you tell me more about this symmetrical force acting which makes such factors repeat
 
Your period key may need to be removed and cleaned. It appears to be sticking.

The fact that the speed is the same at the equilibrium point is a consequence of the conservation of energy, not the symmetry of the force.
 
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Kay makes sense to me now.The conservation of energy is responsible for that consequence.Thanx for the reply
 

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