*Simple frequency and period question - Thanks

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a glider attached to a spring oscillating on a frictionless air track, with specific parameters provided for calculating the frequency, period, and amplitude of its motion. The subject area is simple harmonic motion (SHM).

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply the relationship between frequency and period but expresses uncertainty about how to proceed with the calculations. They reference formulas from their notes but question their correctness. Other participants suggest using established formulas for the period of a mass on a spring and provide insights into the derivation of these equations.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing guidance on relevant formulas and concepts. The original poster is seeking validation of their attempts and clarity on the next steps, indicating a productive exchange of ideas without a clear consensus yet.

Contextual Notes

The original poster mentions being lost and unsure about the correctness of their calculations, highlighting a need for foundational understanding of the concepts involved in SHM.

nukeman
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Homework Statement



Ok, below is the question. I am having trouble with getting started. Like the first steps. A and B are the questions I am having trouble with.

"A 1.00 kg glider attached to a spring with a force constant of 25.0 N/m oscillates on a frictionless, horizontal air track. At t = 0, the glider is passing through its equilibrium position with a velocity vx = - 0.150 m/s. (The negative sign means that the glider is headed in the direction which will compress the spring.)

(a) Calculate the frequency and period of the glider’s motion.

(b) Calculate the amplitude of the simple harmonic motion. "

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



I just don't know how to get start with question A)

EDIT: This is from my notes

Frequency = 1/T
Where T = Period
Or Period = 1/f
Where f is Frequency

But I am not sure how to get the answer to A) for this question from that above data. ?

is this correct for period?

2*pi*sqrt( 1/25) = 1.25

so frequency would be 1 / 1.25 = .8?NOW, is this correct for B) amplitude:

KE = PE, so answer I got was when solving for x was: .03
 
Last edited:
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You should have a formula for the period of a mass on a spring somewhere in your notes.
 
For time you may use time period of SHM
viz T = 2\pi \Large{\sqrt{\frac{m}{k}}}

EDIT:

To find this, consider eqn for x coordinate of SHM, x=Asin(\omega t + \delta)

This x repeats itself when sin repeats, ie, after 2π or time period T

sin(\omega t + \delta + 2\pi) = sin(\omega (t+T) + \delta)

(\omega t + \delta + 2\pi) = (\omega (t+T) + \delta)

T = \Large{\frac{2\pi}{\omega}} and in starting of this derivation we assume \omega = \Large{ \sqrt{\frac{k}{m}} }
 
Last edited:
I am very lost on this. Is anything I did correct?

Any help would be fantastic to get me started. Thanks!
 

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