Understanding Simple Harmonic Motion: Equations and Solution Attempt

In summary, the conversation discusses the relationship between displacement and kinetic energy, stating that when displacement is at its maximum, kinetic energy is at its minimum and vice versa. It is also mentioned that kinetic energy is always above the axis and cannot be negative. The speaker also asks about the role of amplitude and frequency in this relationship, to which the other person suggests considering the relationship between kinetic energy and speed. A trig identity is also suggested as a tool to help understand and sketch the relationship between these variables.
  • #1
Cici2017

Homework Statement


Screen Shot 2017-09-11 at 9.00.55 pm.png


Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


I know that when displacement is max, kinetic energy is 0
and when displacement is o, kinetic energy is max
and I know is should always be above the axis because KE can't be negative
But what about the amplitude and frequency? Thank you!
 
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  • #2
Think of the relation of kinetic energy to speed. What on this graph gives you an indication of how fast it is moving?
 
  • #3
Cici2017 said:
But what about the amplitude
The problem explicitly tells you to "ignore the actual values."
Cici2017 said:
and frequency?
That should come about naturally from the conditions you have found out for the KE.
 
  • #4
I would use a trig identity for cos2(Θ), to get an idea of what is going on, to help you sketch. It doesn't have to be exact, just a sketch.
Here is a pretty good list of trig identities. http://www.mathwords.com/t/trig_identities.htm
 

1. What is simple harmonic motion?

Simple harmonic motion is a type of periodic motion in which an object moves back and forth along a straight line with a constant frequency and amplitude. It is characterized by a restoring force that is directly proportional to the displacement of the object from its equilibrium position.

2. What is the equation for simple harmonic motion?

The equation for simple harmonic motion is x(t) = A cos(ωt + φ), where x(t) is the displacement of the object at time t, A is the amplitude of the motion, ω is the angular frequency, and φ is the phase angle.

3. How do you calculate the period of simple harmonic motion?

The period of simple harmonic motion is the time it takes for one complete cycle of the motion. It can be calculated using the equation T = 2π/ω, where T is the period and ω is the angular frequency.

4. What is the difference between simple harmonic motion and regular periodic motion?

Simple harmonic motion is a special case of periodic motion in which the restoring force is directly proportional to the displacement of the object. Regular periodic motion, on the other hand, can have various types of restoring forces and does not necessarily follow the equation x(t) = A cos(ωt + φ).

5. How can I solve for the displacement, velocity, and acceleration in simple harmonic motion?

To solve for the displacement, velocity, and acceleration in simple harmonic motion, you can use the equations x(t) = A cos(ωt + φ), v(t) = -ωA sin(ωt + φ), and a(t) = -ω^2A cos(ωt + φ). These equations can be derived from the general equation for simple harmonic motion and can help you understand the behavior of the object at different points in time.

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