T = sqrt(m/k)^(1/2pi), solve for k

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the formula for the time period of oscillation, specifically focusing on how to manipulate the equation to solve for the spring constant \( k \). The original poster presents a formula that has led to some confusion regarding its structure and correctness.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the correct interpretation of the formula, questioning the presence of square roots and the placement of the exponent involving \( \pi \). There are attempts to clarify the formula's structure and its relation to the period of oscillation for a harmonic oscillator.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing insights on how to manipulate the equation to isolate \( k \). Some guidance has been offered regarding raising both sides of the equation to a power and taking reciprocals, but there is no consensus on the correctness of the original formula presented by the poster.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted ambiguity in the original formula, with participants questioning its validity in relation to the standard formula for the period of oscillation. The original poster's formula appears to differ from the commonly accepted equation, prompting further examination of its accuracy.

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how do you make k the subject in the time period of oscillation formula:

T=sqrt(m/k)^(1/2pi)
 
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TyErd said:
how do you make k the subject in the time period of oscillation formula:

T=sqrt(m/k)^(1/2pi)
Your formula is ambiguous. This is what it looks like to me.
T = \left(\sqrt{\frac{m}{k}}\right)^{\frac{1}{2\pi}

But that doesn't look like anything I've seen.
 


oh sorry there's no sqrt, my bad its suppose to be m/k^1/2pi
 


And is the exponent 1/(2pi) or (1/2)pi? IOW, is pi in the numerator or the denominator?
 


denominator it is 1/(2pi), like the formula you wrote without the sqrt sign.
 


T = \left(\frac{m}{k}\right)^{\frac{1}{2\pi}
If it's this one, raise each side to the power 2pi, then take the reciprocal of both sides. That should get you close to being able to solve for k.
 


so it is k=m/(T^2pi)?
 


TyErd said:
so it is k=m/(T^2pi)?
Right
 


TyErd said:
oh sorry there's no sqrt, my bad its suppose to be m/k^1/2pi

Is this equation supposed to represent the period of oscillation of a Harmonic oscillator with spring constant k and mass m? If so, it is incorrect.

The actual period is T=\frac{1}{2\pi}\sqrt{\frac{m}{k}}, which is quite different from the formula you've written.
 

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