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Mass on a Spring

Part of the Mechanics section of Coddy's Physics journey. Lesson 82 of 97.

T=2πmkT = 2\pi\sqrt{\frac{m}{k}}

A larger mass: a longer period. A stiffer spring: a shorter period. Four times the mass gives twice the period.

Two identical springs hanging from a ceiling: the left one holds a mass m and bobs with period T, the right one holds a mass 4m and bobs twice as slowly, with period 2T

Same spring, four times the mass: the period doubles.

The amplitude is not in the formula: farther to go, but faster too.

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Challenge

A 0.8 kg0.8\ \mathrm{kg} block on a spring oscillates with a period of 0.4π s0.4\pi\ \mathrm{s}, about 1.2566 s1.2566\ \mathrm{s}. Find the spring constant kk.

Try it yourself

Physics diagram: spring, crate

Solve for kk

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This lesson includes a short quiz. Start the lesson to answer it and track your progress.

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