Simple Harmonic Motion and angular frequency

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the angular frequency of a plank undergoing simple harmonic motion when displaced from its equilibrium position. The user initially equates the restoring force kx to kθL, but incorrectly applies this force to torque calculations. The total torque is influenced by both the spring force and the gravitational force acting on the plank. The moment of inertia is correctly identified as (1/3)mL², but the user struggles with unit consistency in their final equation for angular frequency. The key issue lies in the misapplication of force versus torque concepts in the calculations.
Abid Rizvi
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Homework Statement


A horizontal plank of mass m and length L is pivoted at one end. The plank's other end is supported by a spring of force constant k (see the figure below). The plank is displaced by a small angle θ from its horizontal equilibrium position and released. Find the angular frequency with which the plank moves with simple harmonic motion. (Use any variable or symbol stated above as necessary.)

The picture is uploaded

Homework Equations


##\omega## = ##\frac{\tau}{I}## (where omega is angular frequency)
F = kx

The Attempt at a Solution


So I said the force that puts the plank back to equilibrium is kx. Using the definition of arc length, I said kx = k##\theta##L. A force of Mg is also acting on the plank, so I had the total torque = K##\theta##L-Mg*##\frac{L}{2}## I know that the moment of inertia is ##\frac{1}{3}##M##L^2##. Using the formula for ##\omega##, I had ##\sqrt{\frac{k\theta L-Mg\frac{L}{2}}{3ML}}## But this is incorrect. What am I doing wrong?
 

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Abid Rizvi said:
kx = kθ\thetaL
This is a force, not a torque.

The units don't match afterwards due to this mistake.
 
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