Solving for Potential & Kinetic Energy: x=10sin(pi*t+pi/3)

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The problem involves analyzing the motion of a particle described by the equation x=10sin(pi*t+pi/3) to determine the time at which the potential energy equals the kinetic energy. The context is centered around concepts of energy in oscillatory motion, specifically relating to kinetic and potential energy equations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the relevant equations for kinetic and potential energy, with attempts to equate them. There are questions regarding the role of the phase constant in the equations and how to simplify the expressions derived from the energy equations.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided algebraic manipulations and substitutions to explore the relationship between kinetic and potential energy. There is ongoing exploration of how to simplify the resulting equations and a recognition of the complexity involved in solving for time.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the values for amplitude and angular frequency, and there is mention of the gravitational constant, though its relevance is questioned. The discussion reflects a mix of interpretations and approaches without a clear consensus on the next steps.

jrodss
Messages
5
Reaction score
0
1. The motion of a particle is described by x=10sin(pi*t+pi/3). At what time in s is the potential energy equal to the kinetic energy?

2. I know these equations come into play
Kinetic Energy
K=1/2*m*ω^2*A^2*sin^2(ωt+φ)
Kmax=1/2 k A^2
K=1/2 mv^2

Potential Energy
U=1/2*k*A^2*cos^2(ωt+φ)
U=1/2 kx^2

3. The Attempt at a Solution

Well I know A=10, w=pi, T=pi seconds I am really stuck on where to go from here I think I am trying to make it too complicated. Any pointers would be great. Also if someone could explain what the phase constant does to the equation it would be very helpful.
 
Physics news on Phys.org


you want where

\frac{1}{2}mv^2 = mgx


m will cancel out and you know that v= dx/dt.

then remember that cos2A+sin2A=1
 


from that suggestion I end up with:

1/2*(10pi*cos(pi*t+pi/3))^2=9.8*10*sin(pi*t+pi/3)

Simplifying gets

10pi^2/9.8=sin(pi*t+pi/3)/cos(pi*t+pi/3)^2

I am still jammed up
 


jrodss said:
10pi^2/9.8=sin(pi*t+pi/3)/cos(pi*t+pi/3)^2

I am still jammed up

(10pi^2/9.8)cos2(pi*t+pi/3)=sin(pi*t+pi/3)

Now

cos^2(\pi t + \frac{\pi}{3}) + sin^2(\pi t + \frac{\pi}{3})=1


sub for cos^2(\pi t + \frac{\pi}{3})[/tex]<br /> <br /> then you will have a quadratic in sin(\pi t + \frac{\pi}{3})
 


KE = PE
0.5mv^2 = 0.5kx^2
v = dx/dt = Aωsin(ωt + φ)
v^2 = A^2ω^2sin^2(ωt + φ) = ω^2(A^2 - x^2)
So 0.5mv^2 = 0.5kx^2
mω^2(A^2 - x^2) = kx^2 = mω^2(x^2)
or A^2 - x^2 = x^2 or A^2 = 2x^2 or x^2 = A^2/2 or x = A/(2)^1/2
Substitute this value in the given equation and solve for t. You can see how the phase angle helps to find t.
In this problem g has no roll at all.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
1K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
1K
Replies
6
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 23 ·
Replies
23
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
1K