Simple Harmonic Motion Tuning Fork Question

In summary, the conversation is about calculating the maximum speed of the tip of a prong on a tuning fork that vibrates at a frequency of 264 Hz and has an amplitude of 1.66 mm. The equation Vmax = omega*A is being used, but there is uncertainty about finding the value of A. The mistake is realized and the correct equation is determined to be Vmax = (2pi/T)(A) where T is the period of the vibration. The conversation ends with the issue being resolved and thanks being given.
  • #1
ninjagowoowoo
75
0
Q:
A tuning fork vibrates at a frequency of 264 Hz and the tip of each prong moves 1.66 mm to either side of center. Calculate the maximum speed of the tip of a prong.

So far I've found that Vmax = omega*A, but I don't know how to find A. Am I going in the wrong direction? Or is there a way to find A that I don't know about yet..?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
ninjagowoowoo said:
... the tip of each prong moves 1.66 mm to either side of center.
That's the amplitude.
 
  • #3
Oh haha, I knew it must've been something stupid, thanks.
 
  • #4
Ok so I figured that Vmax would be omega*A, but it isn't correct. I know that
v=-omega*A*sin(omega*t) (yeah I need to learn how to write equations better)

so I assumed that in the problem, it's basically an initial value, so t=0. So that would leave v=omega*A.

From this I got Vmax = (2pi/T)(A)
and T=1/f

so Vmax = (2pi/(1/f))(A)

I guess this is incorrect. Oh and I didnt forget to convert mm to m. Any pointers?
Thanks
 
  • #5
woops nevermind... I must have entered it in my calculator wrong haha sorry. Thanks for the help Al.
 

FAQ: Simple Harmonic Motion Tuning Fork Question

What is Simple Harmonic Motion?

Simple Harmonic Motion (SHM) is a type of periodic motion where the restoring force is proportional to the displacement from equilibrium and is directed towards the equilibrium position. It is a key concept in physics and is commonly observed in objects that oscillate, such as springs and pendulums.

What is a tuning fork?

A tuning fork is a small metal object with two prongs that vibrate at a specific frequency when struck. It is commonly used to produce a pure tone for tuning musical instruments or for scientific demonstrations.

How is a tuning fork related to Simple Harmonic Motion?

The prongs of a tuning fork vibrate back and forth in SHM when struck, producing a pure tone at a specific frequency. The frequency of the tone is determined by the mass, length, and stiffness of the prongs.

How can I calculate the frequency of a tuning fork?

The frequency of a tuning fork can be calculated using the equation f = 1/T, where f is the frequency and T is the period of the vibration. The period can be measured by timing the number of vibrations in a certain amount of time.

How is the frequency of a tuning fork affected by changes in mass, length, and stiffness?

The frequency of a tuning fork is directly proportional to the square root of the stiffness and inversely proportional to the square root of the mass and length. This means that an increase in stiffness or a decrease in mass or length will result in a higher frequency, and vice versa.

Similar threads

How to find the wavelength of the sound of the tuning fork?
Replies
15
Views
8K
Guitar Strings & Tuning Forks: Investigating Beats
Replies
4
Views
2K
When Do Sand Particles Slip Off a Vibrating Plate?
Replies
13
Views
776
Rotating simple harmonic oscillator
Replies
11
Views
587
Which of the following is not a simple harmonic system.
Replies
1
Views
914
Tuning fork standing wave in a water pipe
Replies
2
Views
4K
Harmonic Motion Problem - Finding oscillation of charges in a circuit
Replies
17
Views
1K
How to know whether motion is simple harmonic motion or not?
Replies
17
Views
2K
Calculating Frequency of a Tuning Fork & Exploring Its Resonance
Replies
2
Views
2K
Simple Harmonic Motion (tuning fork)
Replies
2
Views
6K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top