How Is the Amplitude Calculated in a Damped Spring-Mass System?

In summary, the conversation discusses a spring mass system with an external force acting on it and non-zero damping constant and gravity. The problem is to find the amplitude of the system in terms of w and y. The solution is given as R2 = 1/((1-w2)2+w2y2), which comes from the general solution to the differential equation. The textbook does not provide a method for computing the amplitude.
  • #1
mcafej
17
0

Homework Statement


A mass of 4 kg is stretches a spring by 1 m. An external force of cos (!t)
N acts on the mass. Assume that the damping constant is nonzero and gravity is 10 ms^-2.
Consider a spring mass system described by the following IVP.

u''+yu'+u = cos(wt)
u(0) = 0
u'(0) = 0

1) Find the amplitude of the spring mass system in terms of w and y.

The Attempt at a Solution



The solution says

R2 = 1/((1-w2)2+w2y2)

But how is that the solution, I can't find how to compute the amplitude in my textbook, it just says R2=A2+B2.
 
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  • #2
It comes from the general solution to the differential equation.
 

Related to How Is the Amplitude Calculated in a Damped Spring-Mass System?

1. What is a spring mass system problem?

A spring mass system problem is a physics problem that involves analyzing the motion of a mass attached to a spring. The system is used to model and study oscillatory motion and is often encountered in introductory physics courses.

2. What are the variables involved in a spring mass system problem?

The variables involved in a spring mass system problem include the mass of the object, the spring constant, the displacement of the mass, the amplitude of oscillation, and the period of oscillation. These variables are used to calculate the energy, force, and frequency of the system.

3. How do you solve a spring mass system problem?

To solve a spring mass system problem, you first need to identify the known and unknown variables. Then, you can use Newton's second law of motion and Hooke's law to set up and solve equations. You may also need to use calculus to find the position, velocity, and acceleration of the mass over time.

4. What is the significance of a spring mass system problem?

A spring mass system problem is significant because it is a fundamental example of simple harmonic motion. It is used to study and understand the behavior of systems that exhibit periodic motion, such as a swinging pendulum or a vibrating guitar string. It also has practical applications in fields like engineering and physics.

5. What are some common variations of a spring mass system problem?

Some common variations of a spring mass system problem include adding a damping force, changing the initial conditions, or introducing external forces. These variations can affect the behavior of the system and may require different methods of solving the problem.

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