A 0.25 kg ideal harmonic oscillator has a total mechanical energy of 4.0 J. If the oscillation amplitude is 20.0 cm, what is the oscillation frequency?
A) 4.5 Hz
B) 1.4 Hz
C) 2.3 Hz
D) 3.2 Hz

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The oscillation frequency is given by f = 1/2π√(k/m), where k is the spring constant and m is the mass. The total mechanical energy is given by E = 1/2kA^2, where A is the oscillation amplitude. Substituting these expressions into the first equation, we get f = 1/2π√(2E/mA^2). Plugging in the given values, we get f = 1/2π√(2(4.0 J)/(0.25 kg)(0.20 m)^2) = 4.5 Hz.

A 025 Kg Ideal Harmonic Oscillator Has a Total Mechanical Energy