What is the equations of motion for a pendulum and spring

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The equations of motion for a pendulum and a spring are critical in understanding simple harmonic motion. The spring's motion is described by the equation x = A sin(ωt - φ) and the pendulum's motion can be represented as θ = θ0 cos(ωt + φ) or θ = θ0 cos(√(g/l) sin(θ)). For small displacements, both systems can be modeled as simple harmonic motion, governed by the differential equation d²x/dt² + ω²x = 0, where ω represents the angular frequency. These equations are foundational in physics and are extensively covered in standard physics textbooks.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of simple harmonic motion
  • Familiarity with differential equations
  • Knowledge of angular frequency (ω)
  • Basic concepts of pendulum and spring mechanics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the differential equation for simple harmonic motion
  • Learn about the physical parameters affecting angular frequency (ω)
  • Explore the effects of damping on pendulum and spring motion
  • Investigate the applications of harmonic motion in real-world systems
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics, particularly those studying mechanics, as well as educators and anyone interested in the mathematical modeling of oscillatory systems.

swooshfactory
Messages
61
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



This is for a math based physics class. I need the equation ofa pendulum and of a spring.

Homework Equations



Spring: x=Asin(wt-phi)+B
Pendulum: theta=theta0cos(wt+phi) or theta=theta0cos(sqrt(g/l)sin(theta))


The Attempt at a Solution



I don't know which of these are correct. Please let me know the right equation for each; if it's a differential equation, please let me know what it is solved if possible. Thank you.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
For small displacements of the pendulum when [tex]sin \theta \simeq \theta[/tex] and ignoring friction in both cases, the equations governing the motion of the mass-spring and the pendulum are those of simple harmonic motion.

The D.E. is [tex]\frac {d^2 x}{ dt^2} + \omega^2 x = 0[/tex]

Which has a solution with two arbitrary constants (necessary because the D.E. is second order). There are various equivalent forms for the solution. One of which is

[tex]x = A sin(\omega t + \phi)[/tex]

[tex]\omega[/tex] is called the angular frequency and its exact form in terms of the physical parameters in your problem can be determined when you set up the differential
equation. A is the amplitude and [tex]\phi[/tex] the phase. These two parameters are determined from initial conditions. All of this is covered in standard physics textbook.
 
Last edited:

Similar threads

  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
Replies
9
Views
4K
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
3K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
Replies
7
Views
5K
  • · Replies 48 ·
2
Replies
48
Views
9K