Energy in Simple Harmonic Motion
Recommended for grades 9–12.
Introduction
We can describe an oscillating mass in terms of its position, velocity, and acceleration as a function of time. We can also describe the system from an energy perspective. In this experiment, you will measure the position and velocity as a function of time for an oscillating mass and spring system, and from those data, plot the kinetic and potential energies of the system.
Energy is present in three forms for the mass and spring system. The mass m, with velocity v, can have kinetic energy KE
The spring can hold elastic potential energy, or PEelastic. We calculate PEelastic by using
where k is the spring constant and y is the extension or compression of the spring measured from the equilibrium position.
Objectives
- Examine the energies involved in simple harmonic motion.
- Test the principle of conservation of energy.
Sensors and Equipment
This experiment requires each of the following Vernier sensors and equipment (unless otherwise noted):
Additional Requirements
You may also need an interface and software for data collection. What do I need for data collection?
Download Experiment Preview
The student-version preview includes:
- Step-by-step instructions for computer-based data collection
- List of materials and equipment
Note: The experiment preview of the computer edition does not include essential teacher information, safety tips, or sample data. Instructions for Logger Pro and other software (such as LabQuest App or TI handheld software, where available) are on the CD that accompanies the book. We strongly recommend that you purchase the book before performing experiments.
Standards Correlations
Included in the Lab Book
Vernier lab books include a CD with word-processing files of the student instructions, essential teacher information, suggested answers, sample data and graphs, and more.