Why is φ Assumed to Be 90 in the Undamped Forced Oscillator Solution?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the assumption that φ (phi) equals 90 degrees in the context of the undamped forced oscillator solution, specifically relating to equations 15.34 and 15.35. It is established that equation 15.35 can satisfy equation 15.34 under the condition φ = π/2 + 2nπ and A = F₀/(mω² - k). The participants clarify that φ and A were not initially defined, and their values were derived to ensure the equations hold true. This understanding is crucial for solving forced oscillation problems in physics.

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Homework Statement
Please see below
Relevant Equations
Please see below
For this problem,
1675720881858.png

The solution is,
1675720909212.png

However, can someone please explain how this is showing equation 15.35 as a solution of equation 15.34? I though both sides should be equal without assuming that ##\phi = 90##

Also why are they allowed to assume ##\phi = 90##?

Many thanks!
 
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Given 15.34, we want to see whether an equation of the form 15.35 can be a solution if we plug in suitable values for ##A, \omega, \phi##.
To check this, we use 15.35 to substitute for x in 15.34.
It turns out that 15.34 is satisfied by 15.35 provided ##\phi=\pi/2+2n\pi## and ##A=\frac{F_0}{m\omega^2-k}##.
 
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haruspex said:
Given 15.34, we want to see whether an equation of the form 15.35 can be a solution if we plug in suitable values for ##A, \omega, \phi##.
To check this, we use 15.35 to substitute for x in 15.34.
It turns out that 15.34 is satisfied by 15.35 provided ##\phi=\pi/2+2n\pi## and ##A=\frac{F_0}{m\omega^2-k}##.
Thank you for your reply @haruspex !
 
and any solution to the unforced (or homogeneous or ##F_0=0##) system can be added to produce another solution as dictated by initial conditions.
 
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hutchphd said:
and any solution to the unforced (or homogeneous or ##F_0=0##) system can be added to produce another solution as dictated by initial conditions.
Thank you @hutchphd , that is good to know!
 
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Callumnc1 said:
I though both sides should be equal without assuming that ϕ=90

Also why are they allowed to assume ϕ=90?
Φ and A were not defined initially. They were testing a function to see what would be required for it it satisfy the original equation. Then they derived what Φ and A had to be for that form to be correct.
 
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DaveE said:
Φ and A were not defined initially. They were testing a function to see what would be required for it it satisfy the original equation. Then they derived what Φ and A had to be for that form to be correct.
Oh ok thank you @DaveE that makes more sense now!
 

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