What is the Frequency of This Simple Harmonic Motion?

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a body performing simple harmonic motion (SHM) with a displacement equation given as x = 30 sin(50t). Participants are tasked with determining the frequency of the oscillation based on this equation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the application of standard SHM formulas to derive frequency, with one participant calculating f = 50/2π and questioning the correctness of the provided answer options. Others reflect on potential misinterpretations or hasty calculations that could lead to selecting the wrong answer.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the problem and questioning the validity of the provided answer choices. Some guidance is offered regarding the potential for miscalculations in an exam setting, but no consensus has been reached.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of a mark scheme indicating answer B as correct, which raises questions about the calculations and assumptions made by participants. The context of exam pressure and potential traps in question design is also noted.

ryanuser
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Homework Statement


A body performaning simple harmonic motion has a displacement x given by the equation x= 30 sin 50t, where t is the time in seconds. what is the frequency of the oscillation?
Answers are:
A. 0.020Hz B. 0.13Hz C. 8.0Hz D. 30Hz E. 50Hz
(correct answer is B according to the mark scheme)

Homework Equations


ω = 2πf
x = Amplitude cos (2πf t)
x = Amplitude sin (2πf t)
x = Amplitude cos (ω t)
x = Amplitude cos (ω t)

The Attempt at a Solution


f = 50/2π = 7.9577Ηz according to the standard SHM formulas, which means the answer is C not B? what has gone wrong?
 
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ryanuser said:
f = 50/2π = 7.9577Ηz according to the standard SHM formulas, which means the answer is C not B? what has gone wrong?
I'd say you are correct.

Interestingly, answer B is the inverse of that (1/f).
 
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Doc Al said:
I'd say you are correct.

Interestingly, answer B is the inverse of that (1/f).

those who had calculated time period first and were in a hurry would mark (B) in the exam:eek:
 
Sahil Kukreja said:
those who had calculated time period first and were in a hurry would mark (B) in the exam:eek:
Exactly. It's a trap!
 

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