SHM equation velocity of wave help

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the calculation of wave velocity using the simple harmonic motion (SHM) equation. The key equations mentioned are x(t) = A cos(2πft) and v(t) = -vmax sin(2πft), with vmax defined as (√(k/m)) * A. The participant initially struggled to find the wave velocity due to a lack of information on the period but later clarified that the correct form of the wave equation is y(t) = A cos(2π/λ * x - vt), where v is determined as 1/4. The importance of understanding wave parameters and their relationships is emphasized.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of simple harmonic motion (SHM) equations
  • Familiarity with wave parameters such as amplitude, wavelength, and frequency
  • Basic knowledge of trigonometric functions in physics
  • Ability to manipulate equations involving wave motion
NEXT STEPS
  • Research "traveling wave parameters" for a comprehensive understanding of wave motion
  • Study the relationship between frequency, wavelength, and wave speed using the equation f = v/λ
  • Explore the Hyperphysics website for detailed explanations on wave equations
  • Practice problems involving the calculation of wave velocity in various contexts
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on wave mechanics and simple harmonic motion, as well as educators seeking to clarify wave equations and their applications.

Adam Rabe
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Homework Statement


SHM questions.PNG


Homework Equations


x(t) = A cos (2pi * f * t)
v (t) = - vmax sin (2pi * f * t)

vmax = (sqrt of k/m) * A
v = circumference/period

The Attempt at a Solution


I do not know how to find the velocity as question only provides amplitude and i don't know how to find period using the values in the bracket. .

I would like help in the right direction
 
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Hi Adam,

Welcome to Physics Forums.

Adam Rabe said:
I do not know how to find the velocity as question only provides amplitude and i don't know how to find period using the values in the bracket. .

You need to do a bit of research on the traveling wave equation. I suggest a web search on "traveling wave parameters" (hint: The Hyperphysics website entry provides a pretty good, compact summary).

All the information you need is in the argument of the cosine function if you think about what is required for one full cycle of the wave to occur when either of the two parameters (x or t) is held constant while the other is allowed to vary.
 
gneill said:
Hi Adam,

Welcome to Physics Forums.
You need to do a bit of research on the traveling wave equation. I suggest a web search on "traveling wave parameters" (hint: The Hyperphysics website entry provides a pretty good, compact summary).

All the information you need is in the argument of the cosine function if you think about what is required for one full cycle of the wave to occur when either of the two parameters (x or t) is held constant while the other is allowed to vary.
Hello!
thank you so much i see what i did wrong! the equation is actually: y(t) = A cos (2pi/wavelength * x * vt) ~ and v is just 1/4.

I was taught another form of that equation which is y (t) = A cos (2pi* f * t). but if you substitute f as f = v/wavelength you get the following equation.
bless your soul
 

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