SHM, Determing Spring Constant from Period^2 vs. Mass

Thread starter nmacholl
Start date May 4, 2008
Tags

Constant Mass Shm Spring Spring constant

AI Thread Summary

To determine the spring constant (k) using the graph of Period^2 versus Mass, one can use the formula T^2 = (4π^2/k) * m. The slope of the linear fit, which is 5.237, represents 4π^2/k. By rearranging the equation, k can be calculated as k = 4π^2 / slope. Substituting the slope value gives k = 4π^2 / 5.237. This method effectively allows for the calculation of the spring constant from the slope of the graph.

May 4, 2008

nmacholl

Help!

I'm trying to find the spring constant (k) of a spring using simple harmonic motion. I have a graph of Period^2 vs. Mass.

Knowing that T=2*\pi*\sqrt{m/k}

How would one find k from the slope of this graph?
My linear fit yields: y=5.237x+0.003
5.237 being my slope

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May 4, 2008

G01

Science Advisor

Gold Member

HINT: Using what you know can you get an Equations for T^2 in terms of mass? If so, the slope of that equation is 5.237.

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