What is the Amplitude in an SHM Problem?

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AI Thread Summary
In the discussion about finding the amplitude in a simple harmonic motion (SHM) problem, a 245 g mass oscillating at 3.70 Hz has its position and velocity given at t = 0s. The user initially attempted to calculate the amplitude using the equation x(t) = A cos(ωt + φ) but arrived at an incorrect value of 0.0440 m. Another participant suggested using the velocity equation v(t) = -Aω sin(ωt + φ) to incorporate the velocity information provided. The conversation emphasizes the need to utilize both position and velocity data to accurately determine the amplitude and phase constant. Overall, the discussion focuses on solving SHM problems by applying relevant equations effectively.
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Finding amplitude? SHM problem

Homework Statement


A 245 g mass attached to a horizontal spring oscillates at a frequency of 3.70 Hz. At t =0s, the mass is at x= 4.40 cm and has v_x = -25.0 cm/s.
Determine:

Homework Equations


I got the first two
The Period= .27027 s
The Angular Frequency= 23.248 rad/s
The Amplitude=? m rounded to 5 sig figs
The Phase Constant=? rad rounded to 5 sig figs

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried using the equation (x)t=Acos(\omegat+\phi)
and plugged in t=0 and .0440m for x(0) so the answer i got was .0440m but this is wrong. and i can't attempt the phase constant yet because i need the Amplitude for that. Any help is appreciated thanks.
 
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jvick717 said:
I tried using the equation (x)t=Acos(\omegat+\phi)
and plugged in t=0 and .0440m for x(0) so the answer i got was .0440m but this is wrong. and i can't attempt the phase constant yet
Yes you can. You're off to the right start, but you'll need another equation to determine the phase constant. Hint: there's another value you're given in the problem that you haven't used. What can you do with it?
 


I'm guessing that the velocity has something to do with it and maybe the other equation for velocity v(t)= -A\omegasin(\omegat+\phi)??
 
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