You are aboard the International Space Station orbiting the Earth in free-fall. You have to check the value of the spring constant of a large spring, so you hook up a 215 kg mass to each end of the spring and set them oscillating. You measure the period of oscillation to be 3.31 s.
Simple harmonic motion
Simple harmonic motion is a type of periodic motion in which an object undergoes oscillatory motion. The restoring force exerted by the object exhibiting SHM is proportional to the displacement from the equilibrium position. The force is directed towards the mean position. We see many examples of SHM around us, common ones are the motion of a pendulum, spring and vibration of strings in musical instruments, and so on.
Simple Pendulum
A simple pendulum comprises a heavy mass (called bob) attached to one end of the weightless and flexible string.
Oscillation
In Physics, oscillation means a repetitive motion that happens in a variation with respect to time. There is usually a central value, where the object would be at rest. Additionally, there are two or more positions between which the repetitive motion takes place. In mathematics, oscillations can also be described as vibrations. The most common examples of oscillation that is seen in daily lives include the alternating current (AC) or the motion of a moving pendulum.
Oscillations in Space
You are aboard the International Space Station orbiting the Earth in free-fall. You have to check the value of the spring constant of a large spring, so you hook up a 215 kg mass to each end of the spring and set them oscillating. You measure the period of oscillation to be 3.31 s.
[You now use this device to measure your own mass by removing one 215 kg mass and attaching yourself to that end of the spring. Pushing off from the other 215 kg mass, you measure the new period of oscillation to be 2.21 s.]
Trending now
This is a popular solution!
Step by step
Solved in 3 steps with 1 images
