What does wt stand for in oscillation equations

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The term "wt" in oscillation equations represents angular displacement, where "w" is the angular frequency calculated as w=2π/T and "t" is the time variable. In the context of the equations for position, velocity, and acceleration, the maximum values of these functions occur when the sine or cosine component equals one, resulting in maximum amplitude represented by "A" or "B". Understanding this relationship is crucial for solving problems related to maximum speed and acceleration in oscillatory motion.

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What does "wt" stand for in oscillation equations

Hi,

In my physics class we are on the oscillation chapter. I'm kind of confused as to what "wt" in the position/velocity/accel. equations actually is. I understand that w=2pi/T and t is the time in an equation x=Acos(wt + delta) but when asked to find the max speed and accelerations after derving their formuls, the trig "disapprears" (assuming delta=o.)

What does "wt" stand for together and how does this change depending if the acceleration is max or the speed is max?

(I know this isn't a specific problem but it's a concept that I see on some of my HW probs.)
 
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'wt' is essentially angular displacement.

But when it comes to trig functions if y=Bsinx or Bcosx

the maximum value of both sine and cosine is 1, so that the maximum value of 'y' is B.
 


OH! I see. Thanks a lot. :)
 

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