Phase constant of SHM

1. 1MileCrash

1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data

The displacement of a mass oscillating on a spring is given by x(t) = xmcos(ωt + ). If the initial displacement is zero and the initial velocity is in the negative x direction, then the phase constant is:

2. Relevant equations

3. The attempt at a solution

How do I start? The book just tells me that the phase constant depends on displacement and velocity when t = 0, but doesn't say how.

Staff: Mentor

Sketch a cosine curve. What's its initial value? Where on the curve would match the initial condition of the spring and mass? What's (angular) the offset from zero?

OK

1

Huh??

Staff: Mentor

Does the mass start at a maximum extension like the cosine function does?

5. 1MileCrash

No, initial displacement is 0. So, I need to find where cosx equals 0?

Staff: Mentor

Not only that, but where it's going through zero and going negative, just like the mass' displacement.

7. 1MileCrash

Still have no clue on this.

Staff: Mentor

Have a gander:

File size:
33.8 KB
Views:
43