More Simple Harmonic Oscillations

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving problems related to simple harmonic motion (SHM), specifically calculating the time taken for an object to move from x=0.00 cm to x=5.07 cm with a period of 4.00 s and an amplitude of 9.08 cm. The user initially misapplied the cosine function and angular frequency, leading to incorrect results. The correct approach involves determining the phase constant and using the equation x(t)=Acos(ωt + φ) to find the desired time. Additionally, the discussion includes a velocity equation v(t)=-(0.250 m/s)sin(17.0t + 1.00π) and the challenge of finding the first time when the velocity equals -0.120 m/s.

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  • Understanding of simple harmonic motion (SHM) principles
  • Familiarity with trigonometric functions and their applications in physics
  • Knowledge of angular frequency calculations, specifically ω = 2π/T
  • Ability to solve equations involving phase constants in SHM
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and application of the phase constant in SHM problems
  • Learn how to apply the cosine and sine functions in SHM equations
  • Explore the relationship between angular frequency and period in more depth
  • Practice solving SHM problems involving velocity and position equations
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Students and educators in physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and oscillatory motion, as well as anyone looking to deepen their understanding of simple harmonic motion calculations.

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An object in simple harmonic motion oscillates with a period of 4.00 s and an amplitude of 9.08 cm. How long does the object take to move from x=0.00 cm to x=5.07 cm?

I set up my eqn like this: 0.0908cos(ωt)=0.0507
cos(ωt)=0.583
ωt=56.1
then with ω=90deg I get 0.623s which is slightly higher than I think the answer would be, and is ultimately incorrect.

I've tried working the problem out a number of times, in rad and degs to make sure I'm not making an error there, and I get the same answer.


The velocity of an object in simple harmonic motion is given by v(t)= -(0.250 m/s)sin(17.0t + 1.00π), where t is in seconds. What is the first time after t=0.00 s at which the velocity is -0.120 m/s?

for this one it seems like I just have to work it through to find t. When I do so, I get down to 17.0t+1.00π=28.7 (from using sin^-1=-.120/-.250) and then there is no answer that fits (0<t<5 approx.). Plus, in trying the answers, they are wrong.

also, I have another problem I posted about https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=142893"



I'm pretty spent on these, any and all help would be appreciated.
 
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You have two condtions x(0)=0, and x(t)=5.07cm. To use the equation that [tex]x(t)=Acos(\omega t + \phi)[/tex] you have to first find the phase constant. So you need to make a statement like
[tex]x(t)=Acos(\omega t + \phi)=0[/tex]

It is pretty obvious for this one because you essentially want to just start with a sine function. But you can solve and find the phase. Then you want to use that phase you found to solve when [tex]x(t)=Acos(\omega t + \phi)=5.07cm[/tex]. Another problem I see with what you did is you are saying the angular frequency has units of degrees? Remember that [tex]\omega = \frac{2 \pi}{T}[/tex] where T is the period, and has units of s^-1.

The second one is very similar, if you can get the first one then you can get the second one.
 

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