Oscillations and mechanical energy

AI Thread Summary
A mass-spring system oscillates with an amplitude of 3.30 cm, a spring constant of 231 N/m, and a mass of 537 g. To determine the mechanical energy, the potential energy formula 1/2*k*delta x squared is used, where delta x is the amplitude. At maximum amplitude, the velocity is zero, meaning all energy is potential. The discussion emphasizes the relationship between amplitude and delta x in the context of mechanical energy calculations. Understanding these principles is crucial for solving the problem effectively.
Knfoster
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Homework Statement



A mass-spring system oscillates with an amplitude of 3.30 cm. If the spring constant is 231 N/m and the mass is 537 g, determine the mechanical energy of the system.


Homework Equations



Mechanical energy is potential energy plus kinetic energy

The Attempt at a Solution



How do I go about starting this problem?
 
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Are you familiar with the equation for the energy stored in a compressed (or extended) spring, in terms of k and delta-x?
 
1/2*k*delta x but I'm not given delta x am I? or is the amplitude delta x? and if it is then what do I use for velocity in the 1/2 mv^2 ?
 
it's 1/2*k*delta x squared. The max amplitude is your delta x, and since you're considering the situation at max amplitude, the velocity is zero, and so you have just potential energy.

Good luck!
Arjun
 
Thank you
 

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