Simple harmonic motion/static equilibrium -spring problem, mass given

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a 0.500 kg mass suspended from a spring, which is set into oscillatory motion. The velocity function of the mass is provided, and participants are tasked with determining various parameters related to simple harmonic motion, including the period, amplitude, maximum acceleration, and the force constant of the spring.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to analyze the forces acting on the mass using a free body diagram and questions whether their assumption about the relationship between spring force and weight is valid. They express uncertainty about how to proceed with three unknowns and seek confirmation on their approach.
  • Some participants question the sufficiency of the given information, suggesting that additional data is needed to solve the problem.
  • Others suggest that the problem may be solvable with the existing information if the mass was initially displaced, proposing a method to derive the necessary parameters from the velocity function.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the problem. Some guidance has been offered regarding the potential to derive parameters from the velocity function, but there is no explicit consensus on the approach or the completeness of the information provided.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that essential data is missing, which may affect the ability to solve the problem fully. There is a discussion about the assumptions regarding the initial conditions of the mass's motion.

mariegrdnr
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Homework Statement



A 0.500 kg mass is suspended from a spring and set into
oscillatory motion. A motion detector is used to record the motion, and it is found that its velocity function is given by Vx(t) What are:
a. the period of the motion;
b. the amplitude;
c. the maximum acceleration of the mass; and
d. the force constant of the spring?

Homework Equations


given
Vx(t)=-ωAsin(ωt+[itex]\phi[/itex])
not given but seems like the way I need to head
Fspring=-k[itex]\Delta[/itex]y
T=2pi[itex]\sqrt{m/k}[/itex]

The Attempt at a Solution


Did FBD where Fspring=-k[itex]\Delta[/itex]y is straight up and weight=4.9N goes straight down. Giving Fnety=
K[itex]\Delta[/itex]L-mg=0
K[itex]\Delta[/itex]L=mg? can I make this assumption or am I missing something?
Also I have three unknowns k,[itex]\Delta[/itex]L, T and can't find another equation to substitute into for third variable. I just need to know if I am heading in the right direction for this problem.
 
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To solve the problem, one more data is essential.
 
Yes I agree, but none was given, so I was hoping that someone might see something:-(
Thank you for taking a look!
 
No, I believe it can be solved with the given info, provided that the mass was set in motion in the usual way by imparting an initial displacement to the system at rest.

Hint: determine x(t) and dx/dt as functions of time. Determine maximum dx/dt. Then determine time t1 at which dx/dt is half of max. This I believe allows solving for every parameter.
 

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