Need help in Phase of time in SHM

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the phase of a particle in simple harmonic motion (SHM) given the equation x = (6.0m) cos(0.586t + 0.72). At time t = 1.38s, the phase is determined by the expression inside the cosine function, specifically (0.586 * t + 0.72) radians. The participant initially misidentified the phase but correctly calculated the position at that time as 0.25262 m. Clarification was provided that the phase is typically defined in relation to the cosine function, though some texts may use the sine function.

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Chrisemo
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Hi, I'm very confused about one question in my homework, that is due today.
I appreciate any help.Thank you very much.

1. Homework Statement

The motion of a particle is given by: x = (6.0m) cos(0.586t + 0.72)
Find the phase at time t=1.38s

2. Homework Equations

Simple harmonic motion

The Attempt at a Solution


I found the point 0.25262 m and the phase 2pi(1.38)/10.72
 
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The "phase [angle]" is [usually] the expression inside the the cosine function: (0.586*t+0.72) radians.
So, your point is the position at t=1.38s. However, you didn't correctly identify the phase.

I say "usually" because some texts might have defined it using another function (like the sine function).
 
thanks
 

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