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Experiments​

Kinematics and Dynamics of Simple Harmonic Motion

Experiment #16 from Advanced Physics with Vernier — Mechanics

Education Level
High School
College
Subject
Physics

Introduction

When you suspend an object from a spring, the spring will stretch. If you pull on the object, stretching the spring some more, and release it, the spring will provide a restoring force that will cause the object to oscillate in what is known as simple harmonic motion (SHM). In this experiment, you will examine this kind of motion from both kinematic and dynamic perspectives.

Objectives

In this experiment, you will

  • Collect position vs. time data as a weight, hanging from a spring, is set in simple harmonic motion (SHM).
  • Determine the best-fit equation for the position vs. time graph of an object undergoing SHM.
  • Define the terms amplitude, offset, phase shift, period and angular frequency in the context of SHM.
  • Predict characteristics of the corresponding velocity vs. time and acceleration vs. time graphs, produce these graphs and determine best-fit equations for them.
  • Relate the net force and acceleration for a system undergoing SHM.

Sensors and Equipment

This experiment features the following sensors and equipment. Additional equipment may be required.

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This experiment is #16 of Advanced Physics with Vernier — Mechanics. The experiment in the book includes student instructions as well as instructor information for set up, helpful hints, and sample graphs and data.

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