Amplitude Question Just Need A Formula

In summary, a 730 g mass at rest on a horizontal spring with a spring constant of 128 N/m is struck by a hammer, giving it an initial speed of 2.74 m/s at t=0. The period of the motion can be determined by using the formula T=2π√(m/k), where m is the mass and k is the spring constant. The frequency can be determined by using the formula f=1/T. To find the amplitude, use the formula x=Acos(2πft), where x is the displacement, A is the amplitude, f is the frequency, and t is the time. You can rearrange this formula to solve for A by dividing both sides by cos(
  • #1
MJC8719
41
0
At t = 0, a 730 g mass at rest on the end of a horizontal spring (k = 128 N/m) is struck by a hammer, which gives it an initial speed of 2.74 m/s.
(a) Determine the period of the motion.
s
Determine the frequency of the motion.
Hz
(b) Determine the amplitude.
m

I have found parts A with no problem...but i was hoping someone could post the formula that I can use to find the amplitude as I am having some real trouble figuing it out.
 
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  • #2
Please show some work. You won't get help until you do, according to the forum guidelines. (I don't mean to be rude, but it's the only way we can be sure the person asking for help doesn't just want someone else to do their homework.)
 
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  • #3


The formula for amplitude in simple harmonic motion is given by A = x_max - x_0, where x_max is the maximum displacement from equilibrium and x_0 is the equilibrium position. In this case, the equilibrium position is where the mass is at rest, so x_0 = 0. The maximum displacement can be found by using the equation for the position of a mass on a spring, x = A*cos(ωt), where A is the amplitude and ω is the angular frequency. We can rearrange this equation to solve for A, giving us A = x_max = x/(cos(ωt)). Plugging in the values given in the problem, we get A = (0.730 kg * 2.74 m/s)/(cos(sqrt(k/m)*t)). The square root of k/m is the angular frequency, ω, which can be found using the formula ω = sqrt(k/m). Plugging in the values for k and m, we get ω = sqrt(128 N/m / 0.730 kg) = 12.17 rad/s. Finally, plugging in this value for ω and the given time, t = 0, we get A = (0.730 kg * 2.74 m/s)/(cos(12.17 rad/s * 0 s)) = 0.730 kg * 2.74 m/s = 2.00 m. Therefore, the amplitude of the motion is 2.00 m.
 

FAQ: Amplitude Question Just Need A Formula

What is amplitude and why is it important in scientific research?

Amplitude refers to the maximum displacement or distance of a wave from its equilibrium point. It is an important measure in scientific research because it helps us understand the strength and intensity of a wave, which can be useful in various fields such as acoustics, optics, and seismology.

How is amplitude calculated?

The formula for calculating amplitude varies depending on the type of wave. For example, for a simple harmonic wave, the formula is A = √(2E/mω²), where A is the amplitude, E is the energy, m is the mass, and ω is the angular frequency. For a transverse wave, the amplitude is equal to the maximum displacement of the wave from the equilibrium point.

What is the difference between amplitude and wavelength?

Amplitude and wavelength are two different properties of a wave. While amplitude refers to the maximum displacement of a wave, wavelength is the distance between two consecutive crests or troughs of a wave. In other words, amplitude measures the strength or intensity of a wave, while wavelength measures its size or length.

Can amplitude be negative?

Yes, amplitude can be negative. It simply means that the wave is moving in the opposite direction from its equilibrium point. For example, in a transverse wave, a negative amplitude would indicate that the wave is moving downwards from the equilibrium point, while a positive amplitude would indicate an upward movement.

How does amplitude affect the properties of a wave?

The amplitude of a wave can affect its properties in several ways. A higher amplitude generally means a stronger or more intense wave, while a lower amplitude indicates a weaker wave. Amplitude also affects the energy and frequency of a wave, with a higher amplitude resulting in higher energy and lower frequency, and vice versa.

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