Simple Harmonic Motion of a Spring

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around a physics assignment involving simple harmonic motion of a spring system. Participants explore the dynamics of a massless spring with an attached object, focusing on oscillation frequency, speed at a specific position, and the effects of adding mass to the system. The conversation includes attempts to clarify the problem and derive necessary parameters for solving it.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about the relationship between the 22 cm stretch and the maximum amplitude, suggesting that additional information, such as mass or spring constant, is needed to proceed with calculations.
  • Another participant proposes that if the 22 cm stretch is considered the maximum amplitude, it could simplify the problem-solving process.
  • A different participant suggests manipulating the formula for simple harmonic motion, indicating a desire to apply mathematical reasoning to the problem.
  • One participant challenges the assumption that the 22 cm stretch is not the maximum amplitude, explaining that at this point, the spring force counteracts gravity, allowing for oscillation between two positions.
  • There is a reminder about forum rules requiring participants to show their work before receiving further assistance.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on whether the 22 cm stretch represents the maximum amplitude or not. There are competing views on how to interpret the problem and what information is necessary to solve it.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty regarding the assumptions about the spring's behavior and the definitions of terms like maximum amplitude and equilibrium position. The discussion highlights the need for additional parameters to resolve the problem effectively.

ryantosi
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So over the weekend my physics prof has assigned an assignment where one of the questions is as follows and here is my thought process:

A massless spring hangs from the ceiling with a small object attached to its lower end. The object is initially held at rest in a position yi such that the spring is at its rest length. The object is then released from yi and oscillates up and down, with its lowest position being 22 cm below yi. (a) What is the frequency (in Hz) of the oscillation? (b) What is the speed of the object when it is 9.9 cm below the initial position? (c) An object of mass 160 g is attached to the first object, after which the system oscillates with half the original frequency. What is the mass (in kg) of the first object? (d) How far below yi is the new equilibrium (rest) position with both objects attached to the sping?

However, upon inspecting this question I realize that the 22cm stretch is not my maximum amplitude, but rather the distance from my un-stretched spring. There for in order to calculate anything with the one piece of information given, I somehow need to calculate my max amplitude. But in order to do that I need the mass of the object or the spring constant. If anyone could help me out here starting out that would be great. I'm not looking for the answer straight up, but i just would appreciate it if someone could put me in the direction on how to solve the equation because me and my classmates are stumped.
 
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what if the 22cm stretch is the maximum? can you solve it then?
 
Well could you not manipulate the formula x(t)=Xmcos(wt+∅)? I have been stuck on this question for hours now with no progress at all and am running out of motivation.
 
Im trying to say your assumption was wrong. When the object reached yi - 22cm the force of the spring was enough to counteract gravity and so the object begins to go back up to the yi position and will oscillate between the two positions.

Dont forget that PF rules say you must follow the homework template and show some work before we can help further.
 

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