- #1
bmb2009
- 90
- 0
Homework Statement
A massless spring hangs down from a support, with its lower end at y=0, where the y-axis is vertical and points downward (normal orientation of y). When a small unknown mass is attached to the spring, the lower end of the spring moves down to a position y_0 for the mass being in equilibrium
a.) Demonstrate that when the mass is pulled down to a position of y=y_0 + A and released from rest, it will execute a simple harmonic motion around y_0
b.) Express the period of oscillations of the mass in terms of y_0 and g.
Homework Equations
The Attempt at a Solution
Not really sure what/how to demonstrate that it executes s.h.m. I set up a force equation such that F_net= F_restoring - mg
F_net= -k(y-y_0) - mg
let Y be acceleration
mY= -k(y-y_0) - mg
mY=-kA-mg definfe ω^2 = k/m
Y=-(ω^2)A - g is the final equation i got... not sure how this proves anything and not really sure what to do.. any help? thanks