Physics II forgotten equation (oscillations)

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the derivation of the velocity equation for oscillations, specifically v = w√(A² - x²). The original equation presented, v = w√(A²x²), is incorrect due to dimensional inconsistencies. The correct derivation stems from the conservation of energy formula: (1/2)mv_x² + (1/2)kx² = (1/2)kA², leading to the correct expression for velocity in simple harmonic motion. The final form of the equation is v = w√(A² - x²), where w represents the angular frequency.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of simple harmonic motion
  • Familiarity with the conservation of energy principle in physics
  • Knowledge of angular frequency (w) and its relation to oscillations
  • Basic algebra for manipulating equations
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  • Study the derivation of the conservation of energy in oscillatory systems
  • Learn about angular frequency and its applications in oscillations
  • Explore the mathematical principles behind simple harmonic motion
  • Review examples of energy conservation in mechanical systems
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I am reviewing for a test on oscillations and I have no clue how I derived a formula I used for my homework.

Could anyone help me figure out where the equation v=w{\sqrt{A^2x^2}} comes from? Thank you.
 
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That equation can't be correct. The units on the RHS work out to be length2/time.
 
vela said:
That equation can't be correct. The units on the RHS work out to be length2/time.

I actually just found the equation in the book, it comes from the conservations of energy formula. I don't understand how it can work for the same reason you listed, that's why I am confused. And I'm 100% sure I am copying it down correctly.

It is derived from:

\frac{1}{2}mv_x^2 + \frac{1}{2}kx^2=\frac{1}{2}kA^2

mv_x^2 + kx^2=kA^2
 
Try solving for the velocity.
 
vela said:
Try solving for the velocity.
You get v={\sqrt{{\frac{k}{m}}A^2x^2}} which is equivolaent to v=w{\sqrt{A^2x^2}}.
 
No, you don't. How'd you get that?
 
vela said:
No, you don't. How'd you get that?

mv_x^2 + kx^2=kA^2

Sorry, I'm not going to use latex for this so I can do it faster.

mv^2=kA^2-kx^2

v^2=(kA^2-kx^2)/m

v^2= (k/m)(A^2-x^2)

v=sqrt((w^2)(A^2-x^2))

v=w(sqrt(A^2-x^2))

I think that was actually beneficial for me typing that out lol.
 
Yup, that's the equation I think you were looking for.
 

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