Two springs are hung from a ceiling and carry identical masses. The first spring has a spring constant twice as large as the second spring. The masses on each spring are pulled down from their equilibrium positions the same distance and are then released. The amplitude of the oscillation is
A) the same for both springs.
B) larger for the first spring.
C) larger for the second spring.
D) It is not possible to know which is larger without knowing the mass.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The amplitude of oscillation depends on the initial displacement from the equilibrium position, not on the spring constant. Since both masses are pulled down the same distance and released, the amplitude of oscillation will be the same for both springs.

Two Springs Are Hung from a Ceiling and Carry Identical