Simple Harmonic Motion and speed of mass

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the speed of a mass in a mass-spring system at a point where kinetic energy equals potential energy, with an amplitude of 10.0 cm. The user seeks to determine if a numerical solution can be obtained without involving the spring constant (k) and mass (m). The mathematical approach involves solving the differential equation for simple harmonic motion and applying energy conservation principles. However, it is clarified that a numerical answer cannot be achieved solely from the given parameters due to dimensional analysis requirements. Ultimately, a connection between velocity and other physical quantities is necessary to derive a specific speed.
e^(i Pi)+1=0
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Homework Statement


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A mass-spring system is oscillating with an amplitude of 10.0 cm. What is the speed of the mass at a location where the kinetic energy of the mass and the potential energy of the spring are equal?

I want to know if it's possible to solve for just a number, that is, not in terms of k and m. Also if my answer is right as it is. Thanks.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


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Force equals ma and also -kx
ma = -kx
ma+kx = 0
x''+(k/m)x = 0

Solve the differential equation, set x(0) = 0 and set the amplitude to 0.1 (in meters) to yield

x(t) = 0.1sin(√[k/m]t)

Differentiate to find v(t) and sub them into the equation

(1/2)mv2 = (1/2)kx2

I find t = π/4 and v(π/4) = -0.05√(2k/m)
 
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e^(i Pi)+1=0 said:
I want to know if it's possible to solve for just a number
No. Dimensional analysis: you are given a length, and you want a speed; you need a velocity or an acceleration etc. to connect those two dimensions.
 
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