Oscillations of Mass on Beam: Investigating Results

In summary, the coursework is about measuring the oscillations of a mass on a beam to prove the relationship T^2 = k l^3, with k being a constant of proportionality. The plotted graph of results showed that the first 8 results fit perfectly on the line of best fit, but the last two were significantly off. These results were obtained at the longest lengths of the beam, raising the question of whether the greater mass affects the time period due to more of the beam oscillating. The reason for this discrepancy could be that the SHM-approximation fails at large oscillations, leading to potential failure of the model. It is important to consider the approximation used when deriving the equation for the time period.
  • #1
lozzyjay
16
0
ok so, my coursework is to measure the oscillations of a mass on a beam to prove that T^2 = k l^3 when k is a constant of proportionality. And basically when plotting the graph of my results, the first 8 results fit exactly on my line of best fit but the last two are completely off. These results where at the longest lengths of the beam. Would this affect the time period in any way? Would it be because there is a greater mass as there is more of the beam oscillating?
Please help!
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
The SHM-approximation fails at large oscillations so that's where your model might fail.
 
  • #3
does anyone know why this is?
 
  • #4
lozzyjay, can you think of the reason? When you derived the equation for the time period, what approximation did you use?
 

FAQ: Oscillations of Mass on Beam: Investigating Results

What is the purpose of investigating oscillations of mass on a beam?

The purpose of investigating oscillations of mass on a beam is to understand the behavior and characteristics of a mass when attached to a beam and subjected to oscillatory motion. This can provide insight into the fundamental principles of physics and can also have practical applications in engineering and other fields.

What factors affect the oscillations of mass on a beam?

The main factors that affect the oscillations of mass on a beam are the mass of the object, the length and stiffness of the beam, and the amplitude and frequency of the oscillatory motion. Other factors may include external forces, damping effects, and the material properties of the beam and the attached mass.

How do you measure the results of an experiment on oscillations of mass on a beam?

The results of an experiment on oscillations of mass on a beam can be measured by analyzing data such as the period of oscillation, amplitude, and frequency. This can be done through various techniques such as using sensors and data collection software, or by manually recording and analyzing data using formulas and calculations.

What are some real-life applications of studying oscillations of mass on a beam?

Studying oscillations of mass on a beam has many real-life applications, such as understanding the behavior of structures such as bridges and buildings during earthquakes or other oscillatory forces. It is also important in designing and analyzing mechanical systems, such as car suspensions, to ensure stability and smooth movement.

What are some potential sources of error in an experiment on oscillations of mass on a beam?

Potential sources of error in an experiment on oscillations of mass on a beam may include human error, such as incorrect data recording or miscalculations, as well as external factors such as air resistance or slight variations in the beam’s properties. Proper experimental design and careful data analysis can help minimize these errors.

Similar threads

Two spring-coupled masses in an electric field (one of the masses is charged)
Replies
1
Views
441
Rotating simple harmonic oscillator
Replies
11
Views
628
Oscillation of free surface of water in parallelepiped container
Replies
13
Views
1K
Estimating damped harmonic oscillator parameters from this plot of the oscillations
Replies
9
Views
675
What is the Period of Oscillation for a Spring Cut to One-Third Its Length?
Replies
3
Views
937
Find the frequency of the oscillation of a horizontal beam.
Replies
3
Views
3K
What is the amplitude of the resulting oscillations?
Replies
21
Views
4K
Oscillating horizontal mass attached to a spring with Friction
Replies
1
Views
2K
Dimensional Analysis of an oscillation
Replies
3
Views
3K
Collisions in a harmonic oscillator
Replies
18
Views
3K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top