What are the spring and damping constants for a mass on spring problem?

In summary, the problem involves finding the spring constant and damping constant for a mass dropped onto a plank supported by a spring dashpot system. The goal is for the system to settle at a new equilibrium 0.20cm lower than the initial position without overshooting. The question is to find k and b, and also the time required for the platform to settle within 1.00mm of the final position.
  • #1
wdv3835
2
0
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Ive got this problem to do and could really use some help. here it is.

Problem: A 1000kg mass is dropped from 10.0m onto a massless plank supported with a spring dashpot system.(the dashpot provides damping) The spring has a constant k and the dashpot characterized by damping constant b. It is desired that the mass drops on to the plank resulting in the system settling at a new equilibrium 0.20cm lower than the initial position as quickly as possible without overshooting this equilibrium.

Thanks
 
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  • #2
So the question is to find k and b, is that it?
 
  • #3
sorry I completely forgot to put what we are trying to find, find a) the spring constant b) the damping constant c) find to two sig figs the time required for the platform to settle within 1.00mm of the final position
 

1. What is a mass on spring problem?

A mass on spring problem is a physics problem that involves calculating the motion of an object attached to a spring under the influence of gravity and/or external forces.

2. What is Hooke's law and how is it related to mass on spring problems?

Hooke's law states that the force exerted by a spring is directly proportional to the displacement of the object attached to it. In a mass on spring problem, Hooke's law is used to calculate the restoring force of the spring based on the displacement of the mass.

3. How do you calculate the period of oscillation in a mass on spring problem?

The period of oscillation in a mass on spring problem can be calculated using the formula T = 2π√(m/k), where T is the period, m is the mass of the object, and k is the spring constant. This formula assumes that there is no damping or external forces affecting the motion.

4. How does the amplitude affect the motion in a mass on spring problem?

The amplitude, or maximum displacement, of the mass affects the motion in a mass on spring problem by determining the maximum potential energy and the maximum kinetic energy of the system. A larger amplitude will result in a longer period and a higher maximum speed, while a smaller amplitude will result in a shorter period and a lower maximum speed.

5. What factors can affect the motion in a mass on spring problem?

The motion in a mass on spring problem can be affected by factors such as the mass of the object, the spring constant, the amplitude, the initial displacement, and any external forces acting on the system (such as friction or gravity). Changes in any of these factors can alter the period, frequency, and amplitude of the oscillation.

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