SHM Spring System is Independent of Gravity?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around the independence of the period of a mass-spring system from gravitational acceleration. The user attempts to derive the period using Hooke's Law and questions the assertion that the period is independent of gravity. They express confusion over the variable 'x', which represents the extension of the spring under a specific condition. Clarification is sought on whether 'x' refers to the extension when the mass is in equilibrium. The conversation emphasizes the need to understand the conditions under which the spring's extension is measured to resolve the apparent contradiction.
GameJammer
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For a mass-spring system,
Period, T = 2pi * root(m/k)

So using hookes law,
F = kx
But if the spring is being stretched by a mass due to gravity,
mg = kx
So,
k = mg/x

But then this means,
Period, T = 2pi * root(mx / mg)
or,
T = 2pi * root(x / g)

Where have I gone wrong? I've been told countless times that a spring-mass system's period is independent of g, but it seems my proof states otherwise.

Thanks
 
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Hlello, GameJammer. Welcome to PF!

GameJammer said:
So using hookes law,
F = kx
But if the spring is being stretched by a mass due to gravity,
mg = kx
So,
k = mg/x
Just to make sure, what is the precise meaning of x in this equation? Is it an arbitrary value of x or some specific value of x?
 
x is the extension of the spring, it's part of Hookes law
 
Yes. But it's the extension of the spring under what condition?
 
It's the extension of the string due to force F
 
Does x in your equation k = mg/x represent how much the spring is stretched if you just hang the mass on the spring and let it sit in equilibrium? Or does it represent something else?
 
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