Understanding the Equation of Motion for Simple Harmonic Motion

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on the equation of motion for one-dimensional simple harmonic motion, derived from Newton's second law and Hooke's law. Participants seek clarification on the differential equation and its solution, particularly the use of cosine functions and the significance of the term w'' = sqrt(k/m). Suggestions are made to substitute x(t) = A*cos(ωt - φ) into the differential equation to understand the derivation better. The conversation emphasizes that using the notation sqrt(k/m) simplifies the expression, although it can become cumbersome if used throughout. Overall, the thread aims to clarify the mathematical foundations of simple harmonic motion.
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For one-dimensional simple harmonic motion, the equation of motion, which is a second-order linear ordinary differential equation with constant coefficients, could be obtained by means of Newton's second law and Hooke's law
6fedda8728eaf5ffe792a33a178a50ed.png
and
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i don't get this part
6d939d356c64eb78a89eab7090f86ab9.png
which [PLAIN]http://upload.wikimedia.org/math/6/5/6/656fd81e91b7ad38db0c1f263dd5f4af.png[/B]

so can somebody explain it to me? Thank you
 
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What don't you get?
 
The first part is the solution to the differential equation.
The second part is a recast of the solution with one function (cosine).
If you let ##\frac{c_2}{c_1}=\tan \phi## this is the angle sum identity for cosine.
 
6d939d356c64eb78a89eab7090f86ab9.png
why? why "w'' = the square root of 'k' divided by 'm' i don't get this equation
 
Try plugging ##x(t) = A\cos(\omega t-\varphi)## into the differential equation.
 
vela said:
Try plugging ##x(t) = A\cos(\omega t-\varphi)## into the differential equation.
how do they people get this equation?
6d939d356c64eb78a89eab7090f86ab9.png
, where does it come from? can you show me process of deducting this formula? THANKS!
 
Did you try plugging x(t) into the differential equation?
 
It is simply a notational convenience. You could continue to use sqrt(k/m) everywhere but that gets messy.
 
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