SHM Basics -- Series and parallel springs, conceptual question

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To find the time period of vertical oscillations in a system of springs, one can simplify the spring arrangement into series and parallel connections, similar to electrical circuits. This approach allows for the calculation of the equivalent stiffness of the spring combination. Once the effective spring constant is determined, the system can be treated as a single spring. This method streamlines the analysis and avoids the complexity of vector addition of forces. Ultimately, using the equivalent stiffness leads to a more straightforward solution for the time period of oscillation.
Jon Drake
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Suppose we are asked to find the time period of vertical oscillations of this system. Then should we find the component of displacement along each spring and then add the forces by vector method or should we simplify the diagram into series and parallel connection like in electrical circuits and then solve?
 

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Find the equivalent stiffness of the spring combination, then treat them all as a single effective spring.
 

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