AP Physics C: Mechanics : Interpreting Harmonic Motion Diagrams

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for AP Physics C: Mechanics

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Example Questions

Example Question #1 : Interpreting Harmonic Motion Diagrams

Two springs big

A block of mass  is attached to two springs, each of whose spring constant is . The ends of the springs are fixed, and the block is free to move back and forth. It is released from rest at an initial amplitude, and its period is measured to be . What would the period be if the spring on the right side were to be moved to the other side, attached along side of the other spring?

Possible Answers:

Correct answer:

Explanation:

Because the springs are effectively in a parallel arrangement already, moving one does not change the effective spring constant, and therefore does not affect the period.

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