SHM and Total Energy Equations for Solving Homework Problems

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around simple harmonic motion (SHM) and the relationships between kinetic energy, amplitude, mass, frequency, and the time period of oscillation. Participants are exploring how these variables interact within the context of energy equations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are questioning the proportional relationships in the kinetic energy equation and discussing the implications of amplitude, mass, and frequency on energy. There are inquiries about the definitions and dependencies of these variables, particularly regarding the frequency of oscillation and its relationship to mass and force constant.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing insights and prompting further exploration of the concepts. Some guidance has been offered regarding the equations related to frequency and potential energy, but there is no explicit consensus on the understanding of the material yet.

Contextual Notes

There is an indication that some participants may not have covered all relevant material in class, which raises questions about their preparedness for the homework problem. This context may influence the depth of their understanding and the nature of their inquiries.

Cici2017

Homework Statement



Screen Shot 2017-09-11 at 10.47.57 pm.png

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


KE=1/2mω2x2
doesn't this mean is it proportional to all A.B.C&D?
Thank you!
 
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Well, for a start it can't be proportional to both the time period and the frequency. If it's proportional to one it must be inversely proportional to the other. ("Proportional" does not mean simply "depends on" or "related to"; it indicates a specific kind of dependence.)
What does your equation tell you about the dependence on the amplitude?
Do you know a formula for ω (or alternatively for T, the time period)? If you plug this into your equation, what does it tell you about the dependency on mass and frequency?
 
mjc123 said:
Well, for a start it can't be proportional to both the time period and the frequency. If it's proportional to one it must be inversely proportional to the other. ("Proportional" does not mean simply "depends on" or "related to"; it indicates a specific kind of dependence.)
What does your equation tell you about the dependence on the amplitude?
Do you know a formula for ω (or alternatively for T, the time period)? If you plug this into your equation, what does it tell you about the dependency on mass and frequency?

1/2m(2πf)2x2
so proportional to mass and proportional to frequency squared and amplitude squared?
 
Yes, proportional to the amplitude squared, so A is wrong.
As to frequency, I was thinking of another equation. What physically determines the frequency of an oscillating system? Specifically, in terms of mass and force constant?
 
mjc123 said:
Yes, proportional to the amplitude squared, so A is wrong.
As to frequency, I was thinking of another equation. What physically determines the frequency of an oscillating system? Specifically, in terms of mass and force constant?
ummm... I think we haven't covered this in class yet.
 
Then why have you been given the question?
 
mjc123 said:
Then why have you been given the question?
o:) I'm not sure. May be we have. What equation is it?
 
Have you come across the equation ω = √(k/m), or its equivalent T = 2π√(m/k) ?
 
Or think about it another way: What is the maximum potential energy?
 

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