Time period of a mass spring system

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the time period of a mass-spring system in the context of simple harmonic motion (SHM). Participants clarify that the time period is independent of the amplitude of oscillation, which is a key characteristic of SHM. The confusion arises from the additional information provided about the mass being pulled down by 6 cm, leading to questions about its relevance in calculations. The conversation also touches on the differences between SHM and pendulum motion, particularly regarding amplitude effects.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of simple harmonic motion (SHM)
  • Knowledge of mass-spring system dynamics
  • Familiarity with the concept of amplitude in oscillations
  • Basic principles of pendulum motion for comparison
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the mathematical derivation of the time period for mass-spring systems
  • Explore the differences between simple harmonic motion and pendulum motion
  • Learn about the effects of damping on oscillatory systems
  • Investigate real-world applications of mass-spring systems in engineering
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching mechanics, and engineers working with oscillatory systems will benefit from this discussion.

Bolter
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Homework Statement
Calculate the time period of mass spring system
Relevant Equations
See below
Screenshot 2020-02-25 at 17.47.19.png


I have attempted to draw a sketch of this but can't see how the data they gave me help to find time period

This is what value I have ended up getting but I believe is wrong

IMG_3991.JPG


Much appreciated for any help!
 
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The period looks OK to me.
 
kuruman said:
The period looks OK to me.

Thanks but what threw me off here was the extra info that was provided in the question such as the mass pulling down the spring by a distance of 6cm. I thought I had to use this 6cm somewhere in my calculation?
 
This is a feature of the simple harmonic motion (which is the one that spring has) that is that the period (time between oscillations) is independent on the amplitude (how big the oscillations are) this feature is not true in general, for example, is not true for a pendulum (although is a good approximation for small-angle oscillations)
 
Bolter said:
Thanks but what threw me off here was the extra info that was provided in the question such as the mass pulling down the spring by a distance of 6cm. I thought I had to use this 6cm somewhere in my calculation?
Maybe there is more to the problem like writing down the equation of motion. Are you sure this is all there is?
 
Gaussian97 said:
This is a feature of the simple harmonic motion (which is the one that spring has) that is that the period (time between oscillations) is independent on the amplitude (how big the oscillations are) this feature is not true in general, for example, is not true for a pendulum (although is a good approximation for small-angle oscillations)
What's a "small angle oscillation" for a spring-mass system moving vertically up and down?
 

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