Chapter 13: Problem 58
Rank Rank the following mass-spring systems in order of increasing period of oscillation, indicating any ties. System A consists of a mass \(m\) attached to a spring with a spring constant \(k\); system B has a mass \(2 m\) attached to a spring with a spring constant \(k\); system \(\mathrm{C}\) has a mass \(3 m\) attached to a spring with a spring constant \(6 k\); and system \(D\) has a mass \(m\) attached to a spring with a spring constant \(4 k\).
Short Answer
Step by step solution
Understand the Formula for the Period of Oscillation
Calculate the Period for System A
Calculate the Period for System B
Calculate the Period for System C
Calculate the Period for System D
Compare the Periods to Rank the Systems
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Mass-Spring System
This restoring force is proportional to the displacement, following Hooke's Law:
- Displacement causes the spring to exert a force in the opposite direction.
- The force is given by the equation: \( F = - k x \), where \( F \) is the force, \( k \) is the spring constant, and \( x \) is the displacement.
Oscillation Period
Here’s what each part of the formula means:
- \( T \) is the period: This is what we aim to determine, the time for one complete oscillation.
- \( m \) denotes the mass attached to the spring. A larger mass results in a longer period, as a greater force is required to change the motion.
- \( k \) is the spring constant, related to the stiffness of the spring. A stiffer (higher \( k \)) spring decreases the period, meaning the system oscillates faster.
Spring Constant
Several key points about the spring constant are:
- It is measured in units of force per unit length, most commonly Newtons per meter (N/m).
- A higher spring constant implies a very stiff spring, which oscillates more quickly.
- A smaller spring constant means the spring is more stretchable, resulting in slower oscillations.
Physics Problem Solving
- Begin by identifying all known quantities, such as mass and spring constant, in this case.
- Write down the physics formulas that apply, like the period formula \( T = 2\pi \sqrt{\frac{m}{k}} \).
- Substitute known values into the formulas and solve step by step.
- Pay attention to units and ensure they are consistent throughout the calculation.
- Cross-check your solution intuitively: Does it make sense that a larger mass leads to a slower oscillation?