Simple Harmonic Motion - Two springs attached

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves two springs with different lengths and force constants, connected in a way that they are stretched apart. The original poster is tasked with finding the amount each spring is stretched and the period of oscillation for a block attached between the springs.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to calculate the stretch of each spring using force equations and the total stretch of the system. They also explore the period of oscillation by assuming the combined force constant of the springs is additive.

Discussion Status

Some participants acknowledge the original poster's calculations, indicating that they are on the right track. However, there is no detailed critique or exploration of the methods used, leaving the discussion open-ended.

Contextual Notes

The original poster's calculations rely on specific assumptions about the springs and their arrangement, which may not be fully explored in the discussion.

Koey
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Yeah I got this question and I'm just wondering if I'm doing it right.

Homework Statement



A spring normally 10cm long and whose force constant is 150 n/m is connected to another spring normally 20cm long and whose force constant is 100 n/m. The combination is then pulled out so that its ends are 50cm apart.

a) find the amount each spring is stretched.

b) a 400g block on a frictionless surface is attached between the springs. find its period of oscillation.

Homework Equations



T = 2pi sqroot(m/k)
F = kx

The Attempt at a Solution



Well I tried something no idea if it is correct..

a) Made Xtotal = 0.2 because I subtracted the spring lengths
X1 = F/150
X2 = F/100
(F/150)+(F/100) = 0.2
F = 12
Then I subbed F values back into the original 2 equations to get X values.

b) For this question I assumed the combined force constant for the springs would be additive so
k = 250 n/m
m = 0.4 kg

T = 2pi sqroot (m/k)
= 2pi sqroot (0.4/250)
= 0.25s (approx)

Need to know if I'm doing this right or horribly wrong..

Cheers
 
Physics news on Phys.org
It is OK.

ehild
 
Does that means I've done it right??
 
Koey said:
Does that means I've done it right??

YES! :smile:

ehild
 

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