A particle of mass m is attached to a light spring of force constant k and moves in…
PHYSICS · Subjective · A Level · Physics · Mechanics and materials · Mechanics and materials
Problem
A particle of mass m is attached to a light spring of force constant k and moves in simple harmonic motion with amplitude A on a smooth horizontal table.
(i) Derive an expression for the mechanical work done by the spring force when the particle moves from a displacement x1 to another displacement x2 measured from the equilibrium position.
(ii) Using your result, obtain the total work done by the spring force during one complete oscillation and interpret the physical meaning of your answer.
(iii) If m=0.50kg, k=200Nm−1 and A=0.10m, calculate the numerical value of the work done as the particle travels from x1=0.04m to x2=0.07m.