Troubleshooting SHM Equations: Understanding Discrepancies and Correcting Errors

  • Thread starter KiNGGeexD
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In summary, the textbook example says that x=0.01m, v=0.952m/s, and a=-1.5m/s^2, but when I plug in the numbers my answer is x=0.08sin(7.5), v=0.995m/s, and a=0.2m/s^2. My working was trivial, I just plugged in the numbers and checked for an arithmetic error.
  • #1
KiNGGeexD
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I found this example in my physics textbook but it seems that the answers I get when I plug in the numbers are different to what the example says and I'm not so sure why?Image attached of course!
ImageUploadedByPhysics Forums1391560973.780261.jpg
It gives the phase as 7.5 which I got but when I used it in the equations I didn't get the correct answer, mine where x= 0.01m

v= 0.952 m/s

a= -1.5 m/s^2My working was trivial as well, I just plugged in the numbers and I have checked multiple times for an arithmetic error:)Thanks in advanced
 
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  • #2
You've posted a number of times and don't make use of the template ? You should know by now we can't help you if you don't show the details of how you got x, v and a.
In this case it isn't even the eagerness to get the right answer, because that's in the book (at least I guess the book is correct - haven't checked it yet). You want good help, be good to the helpers !

And you can only have made a trivial mistake, right ? Let's find it! Could be as simple as having you calculator on degrees instead of radians!
 
  • #3
All I done for x was

x= 0.08sin(7.5) = 0.01m

And the same process for v and a!

I should say I also answered the exercise which followed using the same method and got it correct:)
 
  • #4
sin(7.5)=0.938
 
  • #5
AHHHHHH I see the problem! My calculator isn't in radians! Doh!

Sorry for wasting your time
 
  • #6
Don't mind.
1. (hopefully) you learned something in working on this kind (and other kinds) of exercise
2. If you get stuck again, you will probably make things easier for potential helpers (they will be happy and you'll get more, quicker, better help).
That's what PF is for, so I'm not convinced time was wasted.
 
  • #7
Thanks:)
 
  • #8
:shy:Don't thank me: hit the button! Who knows I might get a promotion out of this...
 

FAQ: Troubleshooting SHM Equations: Understanding Discrepancies and Correcting Errors

What is the SHM equation?

The SHM (Simple Harmonic Motion) equation is a mathematical expression that describes the motion of an object in a straight line with a constant amplitude and frequency. It is given by the formula x = A sin(ωt + φ), where x is the displacement of the object, A is the amplitude, ω is the angular frequency, and φ is the phase angle.

What is the significance of the amplitude in the SHM equation?

The amplitude in the SHM equation represents the maximum displacement of the object from its equilibrium position. It determines the size of the oscillations and is directly proportional to the energy of the system.

How is the frequency related to the period in the SHM equation?

The frequency and period in the SHM equation are inversely proportional. This means that as the frequency increases, the period decreases and vice versa. The frequency is the number of cycles per unit time, while the period is the time it takes for one full cycle.

Can the SHM equation be used for all types of oscillating motion?

No, the SHM equation is only applicable for simple harmonic motion, where the restoring force is directly proportional to the displacement from equilibrium. It cannot be used for more complex types of oscillating motion, such as damped or driven oscillations.

How is the SHM equation derived?

The SHM equation can be derived using Hooke's law, which states that the force exerted by a spring is directly proportional to the displacement from its equilibrium position. By applying Newton's second law of motion to this system, we can obtain a differential equation that leads to the SHM equation.

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