Simple Harmonic Motion of bobble toy

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the spring constant and mass of a cat bobble head doll using the principles of simple harmonic motion. The spring stretches 2 cm under the weight of the bobble head, and the oscillation frequency is given as 3 Hz. The relevant equation used is T = 2π√(m/k), where T is the period of oscillation, m is the mass, and k is the spring constant. By analyzing the relationship between the spring's stretch and the forces involved, participants can derive both the spring constant and the mass of the bobble head.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of simple harmonic motion principles
  • Familiarity with Hooke's Law and spring constants
  • Knowledge of oscillation frequency and its relation to mass and spring constant
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate the spring constant (k) using the formula k = mg/x, where x is the stretch of the spring.
  • Determine the mass (m) of the bobble head using the frequency formula T = 2π√(m/k).
  • Explore the effects of varying spring constants on oscillation frequency.
  • Study the implications of damping in simple harmonic motion for real-world applications.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and oscillatory motion, as well as educators looking for practical examples of simple harmonic motion applications.

Jennisa
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*note: my previous thread will be deleted because I didn't include relevant equations + I put two unrelated problems in the same thread.

1. Homework Statement
A cat bobble head doll consists of a weighted head on top of a spring. When the head hangs straight sown in equilibrium, it is observed that the spring stretches 2cm. When the head is displaced upward by 1 cm, it is observed to oscillate with a frequency of 3 Hz.

a) Find the spring constant of the bobble head
b) Find the mass of the bobble head

Homework Equations



T = 2pi square root (m/k)

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried to use the formula T = 2pi square root(m/k) to find m and k but I cannot use this because the mass and k are not given.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
No, but you know that the spring stretches 2 cm under a force mg. What does that tell you about the relationship between k and m ?
 

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