Plotting T vs M for Hookes Law: Find k

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding the relationship between tension (T) and mass (M) in the context of Hooke's Law and its application in plotting graphs to find the spring constant (k). Participants are exploring how to derive k from the equations related to the time period of a spring-mass system.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are questioning how to correctly plot T vs M to find k and whether the gradient of such a plot would represent k. There are discussions about the correct interpretation of the time period equation and its implications for plotting M against T².

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided equations and suggested plotting methods, while others are clarifying the definitions of terms involved, such as distinguishing between tension and time period. There is an ongoing exploration of how to rearrange equations to fit the linear form of y = mx + c.

Contextual Notes

There appears to be some confusion regarding the terms used in the equations, particularly between tension and time period, which may affect the interpretation of the graphs being discussed.

sauri
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In the equation for Hookes law what values do I consider if I was to plot for the value of k?. Would plotting T vs M give me this and would the gradient be equal to k?
 
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What is the equation for time period?
T = 2(pi) sqrt[m/k]
Plotting the graph of M vs T^2 vs M i.e. T^2 on x-axis will give you the value of [k/2(pi)]^2
 
hellraiser said:
What is the equation for time period?
T = 2(pi) sqrt[m/k]
Plotting the graph of M vs T^2 vs M i.e. T^2 on x-axis will give you the value of [k/2(pi)]^2

I believe Hooke's law is
T = \frac{kx}{l}
Hellraiser has given the equation for SHM of a Spring-mass system.

Sauri:
Think of the equation of a straight line:
y = mx + c
Where m is the gradient, try to rearrange hooke's law into that form.
 
I thought T was the time period. Didn't realize it was the Tension thing. I prefer the F(orce) symbol. :)
 
thank you for your help
 

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