The ideal spring and simple harmonic motion

In summary, the spring constant can be found by using the formula f=-Kx and frequency=(1/2pi)(k/m)^.5, where T=period. For the given weight of 665 N and spring compression of 0.67 cm, the spring constant is 992.53 N/cm. To find the weight of another person compressing the spring by 0.37 cm, the formula can be re-used and the answer should be converted to N/m. However, since this is an online homework, the given answer cannot be provided.
  • #1
abvebstr19@co
3
0

Homework Statement



A person who weighs 665 N steps onto a spring scale in the bathroom, and the spring compresses by 0.67 cm.
(a) What is the spring constant?
(b) What is the weight of another person who compresses the spring by 0.37 cm?


Homework Equations



f=-Kx

frequency=(1/2pi)(k/m)^.5
frequency=1/T
where T=period

The Attempt at a Solution


f=kx
665N=K(.67cm)
K=992.53
 
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  • #2
abvebstr19@co said:

The Attempt at a Solution


f=kx
665N=K(.67cm)
K=992.53 N/cm


Write in your units.

So you basically want to to find F, for a given x and you know k. Just re-use the formula again.
 
  • #3
thanks, i did that but the answer for that part is still wrong and i can't figure out why
 
  • #4
abvebstr19@co said:
thanks, i did that but the answer for that part is still wrong and i can't figure out why

What is the given answer?
 
  • #5
there is none. its an online homework so they don't give answers until after its due
 
  • #6
abvebstr19@co said:
there is none. its an online homework so they don't give answers until after its due

Likely they want the answer in N/m, not N/cm
 

1. What is an ideal spring?

An ideal spring is a hypothetical spring that follows Hooke's law, which states that the force exerted by a spring is directly proportional to the displacement of the spring from its equilibrium position. It is also assumed to have no mass and to be able to oscillate indefinitely without losing energy.

2. What is simple harmonic motion?

Simple harmonic motion is a type of periodic motion in which the restoring force is directly proportional to the displacement from equilibrium. This results in a sinusoidal oscillation about an equilibrium point. Examples of simple harmonic motion include a mass on a spring and a pendulum.

3. How is the period of a spring-mass system related to the spring constant?

The period of a spring-mass system is inversely proportional to the square root of the spring constant. This means that as the spring constant increases, the period decreases, and vice versa. This relationship is described by the equation T = 2π√(m/k), where T is the period, m is the mass, and k is the spring constant.

4. What factors affect the amplitude of simple harmonic motion?

The amplitude of simple harmonic motion is affected by the initial displacement from equilibrium, the spring constant, and the mass of the object. A larger initial displacement, a smaller spring constant, or a larger mass will result in a larger amplitude of oscillation.

5. Can the simple harmonic motion of a spring-mass system be altered?

Yes, the simple harmonic motion of a spring-mass system can be altered by changing the parameters of the system such as the mass, spring constant, or initial displacement. It can also be altered by external forces, such as friction or damping, which can cause the amplitude of the oscillation to decrease over time.

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