Solving for Amplitude and delta

In summary, we have a simple harmonic oscillator with a frequency of 3.4 Hz oscillating along x with a function of x(t) = A cos(ωt + δ). To calculate A, we can use the given velocity values at t=0 and t=0.1 and solve for A. Then, we can substitute that value of A into the equation for velocity at t=0.1 and solve for δ. Expanding sin(w*0.1 +δ) and simplifying will give us the value of δ.
  • #1
shadowice
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Homework Statement


A simple harmonic oscillator has a frequency of 3.4 Hz. It is oscillating along x, where x(t) = A cos(ωt + δ). You are given the velocity at two moments: v(t=0) = 1.8 cm/s and v(t=.1) = -19.3 cm/s.

1)Calculate A.
2)Calculate δ.

Homework Equations


w= 2pi*f = 21.36 rad/s
v(t) = -wAsin(wt +δ)

The Attempt at a Solution



1) v(0) = -21.36*A*sin(w0 +δ) =1.8 cm/s
1.8/[-21.36*sin(δ)]=A
Solved for A and substituted that into 2nd equation A
v(.1) = -21.36*A*sin(21.36*.1 +δ) =-19.3 cm/s
-21.36*(1.8/[-21.36*sin(21.36*0 +δ)])*sin(21.36*.1 +δ) =-19.3 cm/s
1.8*sin(δ)*sin(.1 +δ)=-19.3 cm/s
sin(δ)*sin(21.36*.1 +δ)=-10.72
from here is where I am not really sure what to do that 21.36*.1+δ throws me off
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
-21.36*A*sin( +δ) =1.8 cm/s ...(1)
-21.36*A*sin(w*0.1 +δ) = - 19.3 cm/s...(2)
Divide (2) by (1). Expand sin(w*0.1 +δ) and simplify. You will get the value of delta. From that you can get amplitude.
 
  • #3
what exactly do you mean by expand sin(w*0.1 +δ) that's where i got lost last time
 
  • #4
sin(A+B) = sinAcosB + cosAsinB
 

1. What is amplitude in a wave?

Amplitude refers to the maximum displacement of a wave from its resting position. It measures the strength or intensity of a wave's oscillations.

2. How do you calculate amplitude?

To calculate amplitude, you need to measure the distance from the highest point of a wave to its resting position. This can be done by measuring the vertical distance on a graph or physically measuring the height of a wave.

3. What is delta in a wave equation?

In a wave equation, delta (Δ) represents the change in the wave's amplitude over time. It is also known as the amplitude decay factor or damping ratio.

4. How do you solve for amplitude?

To solve for amplitude, you need to use the wave equation and plug in the given values for frequency, wavelength, and time. You can then rearrange the equation to solve for amplitude.

5. Why is it important to solve for amplitude and delta?

Solving for amplitude and delta allows us to better understand and analyze waves. It helps us measure the strength of a wave, predict its behavior, and make comparisons between different types of waves.

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