Which Spring Constants to Use for Magnet Oscillation Experiment?

In summary, the choice of spring constants for a magnet oscillation experiment depends on several factors, including the mass of the magnet, the desired oscillation frequency, and the damping effects in the system. It is essential to select springs with appropriate stiffness to ensure that the oscillations are observable and to achieve the intended experimental outcomes. Experimenters should consider both the linear and non-linear characteristics of the springs to optimize performance and accuracy in measurements.
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Boileddog
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For my academic research project, I am studying the oscillatory of magnets attached to extension springs. And to have variety of data on different types of oscillation, I'll be using different spring constants as a variable. But in order to get the springs I need to know the dimensions of the specific springs. Therefore, what are the 10 different spring constants that I should have for ascendingly varying oscillations of spring for a load of around 40 grams?
 
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Boileddog said:
For my academic research project, I am studying the oscillatory of magnets attached to extension springs.
Please be more specific. What exactly is the "oscillatory of magnets attached to extension springs"? Are you talking about the frequency of oscillations in vertical spring-mass systems? If so, why use magnets and not plain weights? What are you going to measure? In projects of this kind, one asks a question and then designs a procedure to answer it. What question, specifically, are you asking?
 
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FAQ: Which Spring Constants to Use for Magnet Oscillation Experiment?

How do I determine the spring constant (k) for my spring?

The spring constant (k) can be determined experimentally by measuring the force applied to the spring and the resulting displacement. Hooke's Law, F = kx, where F is the force and x is the displacement, can be used. By plotting the force versus displacement, the slope of the line will give you the spring constant k.

What is the optimal mass to use for oscillation experiments with a spring?

The optimal mass depends on the spring constant and the desired frequency of oscillation. Generally, a mass that allows for clear, measurable oscillations without causing the spring to deform permanently is ideal. A good starting point is to use a mass that causes the spring to stretch by a few centimeters when at rest.

How do I set the initial displacement for the oscillation experiment?

The initial displacement should be set so that the spring is neither too compressed nor too stretched beyond its elastic limit. A typical initial displacement is about 10-20% of the spring's maximum extension capacity. This ensures that the oscillations remain within the linear elastic region of the spring.

How do I account for damping in my oscillation experiment?

Damping can be accounted for by measuring the decrease in amplitude over time. You can introduce a damping coefficient (b) into the equation of motion: m(d²x/dt²) + b(dx/dt) + kx = 0. Experimentally, you can measure the decay in amplitude over several oscillations and use this data to calculate the damping coefficient.

What is the effect of changing the spring constant on the oscillation frequency?

The oscillation frequency is directly related to the spring constant and the mass attached. The natural frequency (f) of the system is given by the formula f = (1/2π)√(k/m). Increasing the spring constant k will increase the frequency, while increasing the mass m will decrease the frequency. Adjust these parameters according to the desired oscillation characteristics.

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