What Is the Speed of an Oscillating Particle at Equilibrium?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the speed of an oscillating particle at its equilibrium position, specifically within the context of simple harmonic motion. Participants explore the relationship between displacement, velocity, and angular velocity, as well as the implications of various parameters in the equations governing oscillatory motion.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the oscillation of a particle, questioning the maximum speed at equilibrium and the calculations involved in determining angular velocity. There are attempts to clarify the relationship between average speed and instantaneous speed, as well as the correct interpretation of the equations governing simple harmonic motion.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing guidance on the use of relevant equations and suggesting resources for further understanding. There is an ongoing exploration of different interpretations of the problem, particularly regarding the correct values for amplitude and angular velocity.

Contextual Notes

Participants note potential confusion regarding the timing of measurements and the accuracy of calculated values. There is an emphasis on ensuring correct parameters are used in calculations, as well as the importance of understanding the underlying principles of oscillatory motion.

  • #31
PS personally I would never trade in the perfectly correct value of ##6\pi## m/s for an approximate answer (18.7 m/s w is a wrong rounding off for 18.8495559215... ) unless I was really forced to do so. After all, in subsequent calculations factors ##\pi## may well cancel out.
 
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  • #32
BvU said:
PS personally I would never trade in the perfectly correct value of ##6\pi## m/s for an approximate answer (18.7 m/s w is a wrong rounding off for 18.8495559215... ) unless I was really forced to do so. After all, in subsequent calculations factors ##\pi## may well cancel out.
very true, ill keep that in mind
 
  • #33
BvU said:
Draw a straight line with slope 3 m/s through the point (1.5s, 0 m) to check...
Where did the 2.5 s come from ? Not from me.
 
  • #34
BvU said:
Where did the 2.5 s come from ? Not from me.
oh, i thought i needed to check by plotting the line at 2.5 secs with slope 6 pi.

but yes, before the 2.5 was a mistake i made :(
 
  • #35
I'm lagging with my slow typing.

Acquiring some "dexterity" with sines and cosines is a good idea.
This exercise helps, but the ##A## and ##\omega## obfuscate things a bit (intentionally, from the point of viewof the exercise composer). For you, practicing with ##x = \sin (\omega t)## is more helpful (i.e. A = 1 and ##\omega = 1##).

Draw a graph of that and a unit circle on the same scale to the left and tadaa: values of x and speed at the angles ##0, {\pi\over 6}, {\pi\over 4}, {\pi\over 3}, {\pi\over 2}, {2\pi\over 3}, {5\pi\over 6}, {\pi} ## and each of these + ##{\pi}## become clear.

See how they all hang together, and also hang together with ##{d^2x\over dt^2} = -x##.

Once you have that internalized, dealing with ##A\ne 0## and ##\omega \ne 0## is a piece of cake and your efficiency in excercises will improve; also: you don't have to remember all that much.
 
  • #36
BvU said:
I'm lagging with my slow typing.

Acquiring some "dexterity" with sines and cosines is a good idea.
This exercise helps, but the ##A## and ##\omega## obfuscate things a bit (intentionally, from the point of viewof the exercise composer). For you, practicing with ##x = \sin (\omega t)## is more helpful (i.e. A = 1 and ##\omega = 1##).

Draw a graph of that and a unit circle on the same scale to the left and tadaa: values of x and speed at the angles ##0, {\pi\over 6}, {\pi\over 4}, {\pi\over 3}, {\pi\over 2}, {2\pi\over 3}, {5\pi\over 6}, {\pi} ## and each of these + ##{\pi}## become clear.

See how they all hang together, and also hang together with ##{d^2x\over dt^2} = -x##.

Once you have that internalized, dealing with ##A\ne 0## and ##\omega \ne 0## is a piece of cake and your efficiency in excercises will improve; also: you don't have to remember all that much.
thanks for the advice :)
 
  • #37
Welcome. Good luck with your physics binge.

More advice: get some rest when wearing out !
 
  • #38
BvU said:
Welcome. Good luck with your physics binge.

More advice: get some rest when wearing out !
hehe, no rest for me.
 

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