Understanding Simple Harmonic Motion: Solving the Second Order ODE

In summary, simple harmonic motion is a type of periodic motion where a system moves back and forth around an equilibrium point with a restoring force proportional to the displacement. Some examples include a pendulum, mass-spring system, and a bouncing ball. It differs from other types of motion in its periodic nature and constant period and amplitude. The equation for simple harmonic motion is x(t) = A*sin(ωt + φ) and it is related to energy conservation, where the total energy of the system is constant and is a combination of kinetic and potential energy.
  • #1
coverband
171
1
The equation of simple harmonic motion is given as

(d2x)/(dt2)+xk^2=0

Could someone show me HOW we arrive at the general solution to this second order ODE
 
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  • #2
coverband said:
The equation of simple harmonic motion is given as

(d2x)/(dt2)+xk^2=0

Could someone show me HOW we arrive at the general solution to this second order ODE
The solution is straightforward, simply take an Anzats of the form

[tex]x=Ae^{rt}[/tex]

and substitute into the ODE. The value of the constants may be determined using appropriate initial conditions.
 

1. What is simple harmonic motion?

Simple harmonic motion is a type of periodic motion in which a system oscillates back and forth around an equilibrium point. It is characterized by a restoring force that is proportional to the displacement from the equilibrium point and is in the opposite direction of the displacement.

2. What are some examples of simple harmonic motion?

Some examples of simple harmonic motion include a pendulum, a mass-spring system, and a bouncing ball. These systems exhibit simple harmonic motion because they have a restoring force that is proportional to the displacement from the equilibrium point.

3. How is simple harmonic motion different from other types of motion?

Simple harmonic motion differs from other types of motion in that it is a periodic motion that is governed by a restoring force that is proportional to the displacement from the equilibrium point. It is also characterized by a constant period and amplitude.

4. What is the equation for simple harmonic motion?

The equation for simple harmonic motion is x(t) = A*sin(ωt + φ), where x is the displacement from the equilibrium point, A is the amplitude, ω is the angular frequency, and φ is the phase angle.

5. How is simple harmonic motion related to energy?

In simple harmonic motion, the total energy of the system is conserved and is equal to the sum of the kinetic energy and potential energy. As the system oscillates between the equilibrium point and the maximum displacement, the energy is constantly being converted between these two forms.

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