PART 2 OSCILLATIONS, WAVES, AND FLUIDS
CHAPTER 15 OSCILLATORY MOTION
ActivPhysics can help with these problems:
All Activities in Section 9
Sections 15-1 and 15-2: Oscillations and
Simple Harmonic Motion
Problem
1. A doctor counts 77 heartbeats in one minute. What
are the period and frequency of the heart’s
oscillations?
Solution
If 77 heartbeats take 1 min., then one heartbeat (one
cycle) takes T = 1 min /77 = 60 s/77 = 0.77 s, which is
the period. The frequency is f = 77/ min = 77/60 s =
1.28 Hz. (One can see that T = 1/f.)
Problem
2. A violin string playing the note “A” oscillates at
440 Hz. What is the period of its oscillation?
Solution
T = 1/f = 1/440 Hz = 2.27 ms (Equation 15-1).
Problem
3. The vibration frequency of a hydrogen chloride
molecule is 8.66×1013 Hz. How long does it take
the molecule to complete one oscillation?
Solution
T = 1/f = 1/(8.66×1013 Hz) = 1.15×10−14 s = 11.5 fs
(Equation 15-1).
Problem
4. Write expressions for simple harmonic motion
(a) with amplitude 10 cm, frequency 5.0 Hz, and
with maximum displacement at t = 0 and (b) with
amplitude 2.5 cm, angular frequency 5.0 s−1 , and
with maximum velocity at t = 0.
Solution
(a) Use Equation 15-9 with A = 10 cm, ω =
2π(5 Hz) = 10π s−1 and φ = 0. Then x(t) = (10 cm)×
cos[(10π s−1 )t]. (b) The maximum (positive) velocity
occurs at t = 0 if sin φ = −1 (from Equation 15-10),
therefore, the motion is described by Equation 15-9
with A = 2.5 cm, ω = 5 s−1 , and φ = −π/2. Since
cos(ωt − π/2) = sin ωt, the expression simplifies to
x(t) = (2.5 cm) sin[(5 s−1 )t].
Problem
5. Determine the amplitude, angular frequency, and
phase constant for each of the simple harmonic
motions shown in Fig. 15-33.
Solution
The amplitude is the maximum displacement, read
along the x axis (ordinate) in Fig. 15-33. The angular
frequency is 2π times the reciprocal of the period,
which is the time interval between corresponding
points read along the t axis (abscissa). The phase
constant can be determined from the intercept and
slope (displacement and velocity) at t = 0. One sees
that (a) A ≃ 20 cm, ω ≃ 2π/4 s ≃ 21 π s−1 , and φ ≃ 0;
(b) A ≃ 30 cm, ω ≃ 2π/3.2 s ≃ 2 s−1 , and φ ≃ −90◦ ≃
− 12 π; (c) A ≃ 40 cm, ω ≃ 2π/(2×2 s) ≃ 21 π s−1 , and
φ ≃ cos−1 (27/40) ≃ 48◦ ≃ 41 π.
figure 15-33 Problem 5 Solution.
Problem
6. A 200-g mass is attached to a spring of constant
k = 5.6 N/m and set into oscillation with amplitude
A = 25 cm. Determine (a) the frequency in hertz,
(b) the period, (c) the maximum velocity, and
(d) the maximum force in the spring.
232 CHAPTER 15
Solution
For apmass on p a spring, Equation 15-8a gives
ω = k/m = (5.6 N/m)/(0.2 kg) = 5.29 s−1 . Then
(a) f = ω/2π = 0.842 Hz (Equation 15-8b), (b) T =
1/f = 1.19 s (Equation 15-8c), (c) vmax = ωA =
(5.29 s−1 )(0.25 m) = 1.32 m/s (Equation 15-10), and
(d) Fmax = mamax = mω 2 A = kxmax = kA =
(5.6 N/m)(0.25 m) = 1.40 N (Equations 15-2 or
3 or 11).
Problem
7. An astronaut in an orbiting spacecraft is “weighed”
by being strapped to a spring of constant k =
400 N/m, and set into simple harmonic motion. If
the oscillation period is 2.5 s, what is the
astronaut’s mass?
Solution
We suppose that the other end of the spring is
fastened to the spacecraft, whose mass is much greater
than the astronaut’s, and that the orbiting system is
approximately inertial. Then Equation 15-8c gives
m = k/ω 2 = k(T /2π)2 = (400 N/m)(2.5 s/2π)2 =
63.3 kg.
Problem
8. A simple model for an automobile suspension
consists of a mass attached to a spring. If the mass
is 1900 kg and the spring constant is 26 kN/m,
with what frequency and period will the car
undergo simple harmonic motion?
Solution
p
Equations 15-8b and 8c give f = (1/2π) k/m =
0.589 Hz, and T = 1/f = 1.70 s.
Problem
9. A simple model of a carbon dioxide (CO2 ) molecule
consists of three mass points (the atoms) connected
by two springs (electrical forces), as suggested in
Fig. 15-34. One way this system can oscillate is if
the carbon atom stays fixed and the two oxygens
move symmetrically on either side of it. If the
frequency of this oscillation is 4.0×1013 Hz, what is
the effective spring constant? The mass of an
oxygen atom is 16 u.
figure 15-34 Problem 9.
Solution
With the carbon atom end of either “spring” fixed,
p the
frequency of either oxygen atom is ω = 2πf = k/m.
Therefore k = (2π×4×1013 Hz)2 (16×1.66×10−27 kg) =
1.68×103 N/m.
Problem
10. Sketch the following simple harmonic motions on
the same graph: (a) x = (15 cm)[cos(2.5t + π/2)],
(b) motion with amplitude 30 cm, period 5.0 s,
phase constant 0; (c) motion with amplitude
15 cm, frequency 0.40 Hz, phase constant 0.
Solution
(a) This equation has amplitude 15 cm, period
T = 2π/(2.5 s−1 ) = 2.51 s (t in seconds is understood),
and phase constant 21 π. Note that cos(ωt + 21 π) =
−sin ωt. (b) and (c) both are represented by equations
of the form x = A cos ωt, but the amplitude and
period of (c) are half those of (b). Except for the
difference in phase, (c) is nearly the same as (a).
Problem 10 Solution.
Problem
11. Two identical mass-spring systems consist of 430-g
masses on springs of constant k = 2.2 N/m. Both
are displaced from equilibrium and the first
released at time t = 0. How much later should the
second be released so the two oscillations differ in
phase by π/2?
Solution
Suppose that both masses are released from their
maximum positive displacements, the first at t = 0
and the second at t = t0 . Then, since the phase (the
argument of the cosine in Equation 15-9) of each
motion is zero at release, φ1 = 0 and ω2 t0 + φ2 = 0.
The difference in phase is 21 π = (ω1 t + φ1 ) − (ω2 t +
φ
p2 ) = (ω1 − ω2 )t + (φ1 − φ2 ) = −φ2 , where ω1 = ω2 =
k/m (for identical
p mass-spring
p systems). Thus, t0 =
−φ2 /ω2 = 21 π m/k = 12 π (0.43 kg)/(2.2 N/m) =
0.694 s. (In terms of the period, t0 = −φ2 /(2π/T ) =
1
4 T, which is intuitively more obvious.)

Problem
12. The quartz crystal in a digital quartz watch
executes simple harmonic motion at 32,768 Hz.
(This is 215 Hz, chosen so 15 divisions by 2 give a
signal at 1.00000 Hz.) If each face of the crystal
undergoes a maximum displacement of 100 nm,
find the maximum velocity and acceleration of the
crystal faces.
Solution
The amplitude is A = 10−7 m, and the angular
frequency is ω = 2π(32,768 Hz) = 2.06×105 s−1 .
Therefore, vmax = Aω = 2.06 cm/s, and amax =
2
Aω 2 = ωvmax = 4.24 km/s .
Problem
13. A mass m slides along a frictionless horizontal
surface at speed v0 . It strikes a spring of constant
k attached to a rigid wall, as shown in Fig. 15-35.
After a completely elastic encounter with the
spring, the mass heads back in the direction it
came from. In terms of k, m, and v0 , determine
(a) how long the mass is in contact with the spring
and (b) the maximum compression of the spring.
v0
m before Equation 15-8a and in the solution to the
figure 15-35 Problem 13.
Solution
(a) While the mass is in contact with the spring, the
net horizontal force on it is just the spring force, so it
undergoes half a cycle of simple harmonic motion
before leaving the spring with speed v0 to the left.
This takes time equal to half a period 12 T = π/ω =
p Harmonic Motion
π m/k. (b) v0 is the maximum speed, which is
related to the maximum compression of the springp (the
amplitude) by v0 = ωA. Thus A = v0 /ω = v0 m/k.
Problem
14. A 50-g mass is attached to a spring and undergoes
simple harmonic motion. Its maximum
2
acceleration is 15 m/s and its maximum speed is
3.5 m/s. Determine (a) the angular frequency,
(b) the spring constant, and (c) the amplitude of
the motion.
CHAPTER 15 233
Solution
(a) From amax = Aω 2 and vmax = Aω, we find
ω = amax /vmax = (15 m/s2 )/(3.5 m/s) = 4.29 s−1 .
(b) k = mω 2 = (0.05 kg)(4.29 s−1 )2 = 0.918 N/m.
(c) A = vmax /ω = amax /ω 2 = vmax
2
/amax = (etc.) =
2 2
(3.5 m/s) /(15 m/s ) = 0.817 m (the latter expression,
in terms of given data, is preferred).
Problem
15. Show by substitution that x(t) = A sin ωt is a
solution to Equation 15-4.
Solution
If x = A sin ωt, dx/dt = ωA cos ωt, and d2 x/dt2 =
−ω 2 A sin ωt = −ω 2 x. Substituting into Equation 15-4,
we find m(−ω 2 x) = −kx, which is satisfied if ω 2 =
k/m.
Problem
16. Show by substitution that x(t) = a cos ωt − b sin ωt
is a solution to Equation 15-4, and that this
√ form
is equivalent to Equation 15-9 with A = a2 + b2
and φ = tan−1 (b/a).
Solution
It is easy enough to substitute the given expression
into Equation 15-4, but it is shown in the paragraph
previous problem that cos ωt and sin ωt are solutions,
respectively. An important property of linear
differential equations is that a linear combination of
solutions is also a solution. If we expand
Equation 15-9, using a trigonometric identity from
Appendix A, we find A cos(ωt + φ) = A(cos φ cos ωt −
sin φ sin ωt).
√ If we define a = A cos φ and b = A sin φ,
then A = a2 + b2 and φ = tan−1 (b/a), and the
equivalence of the two forms is evident.
Section 15-3: Applications of Simple
Problem
17. How long should you make a simple pendulum so
its period is (a) 200 ms; (b) 5.0 s; (c) 2.0 min?
Solution
The period and length of a simple pendulum (at the
surface of the Earth) are related by Equation 15-18,
therefore ℓ = (T /2π)2 g = (0.248 m/s2 )T 2 = 9.93 mm,
6.21 m, and 3.57 km respectively, for the three values
given.
234 CHAPTER 15
Problem
18. At the heart of a grandfather clock is a simple
pendulum 1.45 m long; the clock ticks each time
the pendulum reaches its maximum displacement
in either direction. What is the time interval
between ticks?
Solution
The clock ticks twice each period
p of oscillation, so the
time between ticks is 21 T = π ℓ/g = 1.21 s.
Problem
19. A 640-g hollow ball 21 cm in diameter is
suspended by a wire and is undergoing torsional
oscillations at a frequency of 0.78 Hz. What is the
torsional constant of the wire?
Solution
The rotational inertia of a hollow sphere about an axis
through its center is 23 MR 2 (see Table 12-2).
Equation 15-14 gives κ = ω 2 I = (2π×0.78 Hz)2 ×
( 32 ×0.64 kg)( 12 ×0.21 m)2 = 0.113 N·m/rad.
Problem
20. A physics student, bored by a lecture on simple
harmonic motion, idly picks up his pencil (mass
9.2 g, length 17 cm) by the tip with his frictionless
fingers, and allows it to swing back and forth with
small amplitude. If it completes 6279 full cycles
during the lecture, how long does the lecture last?
(Hint: See Example 15-5.)
Solution
Regarding the pencil as a thin rod suspended from one
end,
p as in Example 15-5, we find the period is T =
2π 2ℓ/3 g. The length of the lecture (if we assume
that the student
q became bored the instant it began) is
2 attached; the low point is 5.8 cm below this. What
6279(2π)× 2(0.17 m)/3(9.8 m/s ) = 4.24×103 s =
70.7 min .
Problem
21. A pendulum of length ℓ is mounted in a rocket.
What is its period if the rocket is (a) at rest on its
launch pad; (b) accelerating upward with
acceleration a = 12 g; (c) accelerating downward
with acceleration a = 21 g; (d) in free fall?
Solution
(It may be helpful to think of an elevator instead of a
rocket in this problem.) Let a be the acceleration of
the pendulum relative to the rocket, and let a0 be the
acceleration of the rocket relative to the ground
(assumed to be Pan inertial system). P Then Newton’s
second law is F = m(a + a0 ), or F − ma0 = ma.
The rotational analog of this equation is the
appropriate generalization of Equation 15-15 for a
simple pendulum in an accelerating frame. The
“fictitious” torque (about the point of suspension),
r × (−ma0 ), can be combined with the torque of
gravity, r × mg, if we replace g by |g − a0 |, while the
right-hand side, |r × ma| = Iα, is the same as
Equation 15-15. For small oscillations about the
equilibrium position
p (which depends on a0 ), the
period is T = 2π ℓ/ |g − a0 |. (a) If a0 = 0, T =
p
2π ℓ/g, as before. (b) Take the y axis q positive up.
Then a0 = 21 g̂ and g = −g̂, so T = 2π ℓ/(g + 12 g) =
p q
2π 2ℓ/3g. (c) If a0 = − 12 g̂, T = 2π ℓ/(g − 12 g) =
p
2π 2ℓ/g. (d) If a0 = g, T = ∞ (there is no restoring
torque and the pendulum does not oscillate).
Problem
22. A 340-g mass is attached to a vertical spring and
lowered slowly until it rests at a new equilibrium
position, which is 30 cm below the spring’s
original equilibrium. The system is then set into
simple harmonic motion. What is the period of
the motion?
Solution
At the “new” equilibrium position, mg = kx1 (see the
beginning of Section 15-3) so m/k = x1 /g = 0.3 m÷
(9.8 m/s2 ) = (T /2π)2 . Thus T = 1.10 s.
Problem
23. A mass is attached to a vertical spring, which then
goes into oscillation. At the high point of the
oscillation, the spring is in the original unstretched
equilibrium position it had before the mass was
is the period of oscillation?
Solution
At the highest point, there is no spring force (since the
spring is unstretched), so the acceleration is just g
(downward). This is also the maximum acceleration
during the simple harmonic motion (since amax occurs
where the displacement is maximum), so amax =
g = ω 2 A. The peak-to-peak displacement
p is 2A =
5.8qcm, thus T = 2π/ω = 2π A/g =
2π 0.029 m/(9.8 m/s2 ) = 0.342 s.
 CHAPTER 15 235

Problem
24. Derive the period of a simple pendulum by
considering the horizontal displacement x and the
force acting on the bob, rather than the angular
displacement and torque.

Solution
The tangential component of Newton’s second law, for
a simple pendulum of mass m and length ℓ, is
m(d2 s/dt2 ) = −mg sin θ. (The radial component
guarantees that the motion follows a circular arc.)
The horizontal displacement is x = ℓ sin θ. For small
displacements, x ≈ ℓθ = s, so the equation of motion is
approximately
d2 s d2 x x d2 x g 
m 2 ≈ m 2 = −mg , or = − x.
dt dt ℓ dt2 ℓ
This is the equation forpsimple harmonic motion with
period T = 2π/ω = 2π ℓ/g. figure 15-36 Problem 25.

of torsional oscillations diminishes by 20%, what is

the mass of the beam?

figure 15-37 Problem 26.

Problem 24 Solution.
Problem
25. A solid disk of radius R is suspended from a spring
of linear spring constant k and torsional constant
κ, as shown in Fig. 15-36. In terms of k and κ,
what value of R will give the same period for the
vertical and torsional oscillations of this system?
Solution
Equating the angular frequencies for vertical and
torsional oscillations (Equations 15-8a and
p 15-14), we
find k/M = κ/I = κ/( 21 M R2 ), or R = 2κ/k.
Problem
26. A thin steel beam 8.0 m long is suspended from a
crane and is undergoing torsional oscillations.
Two 75-kg steelworkers leap onto opposite ends of
the beam, as shown in Fig. 15-37. If the frequency
Solution
The frequencies before and after the steel workers
jump, f2 = 0.8f1 , can be related to the rotational
inertias of the beam, withpand without them, through
Equation 15-14, f2 /f1 = I1 /I2 , since the torsional
1
constant κ is not changed. Before, I1 = 12 M ℓ2
2 1 2
(Table 12-2), and after, I2 = I1 + 2m(ℓ/2) = 12 ℓ ×
(M + 6m), where m = 75 kg is each steelworker’s
1
mass. Therefore I1 = (f2 /f1 )2 I2 = 12 M ℓ2 =
1 2 2
12 (0.8) ℓ (M + 6m), or M = 6(75 kg)(0.64)÷
(1 − 0.64) = 800 kg.
Problem
27. Geologists use an instrument called a gravimeter
to measure the local acceleration of gravity. A
particular gravimeter uses the period of a
1-m-long pendulum to determine g. If g is to be
measured to within 1 mgal(1 gal = 1 cm/s2 ) and if
the period can be measured with arbitrary
accuracy, how accurately must the length of the
pendulum be known?
236 CHAPTER 15
p
Solution oscillations is 2π 2R/g. Hint: You may find the
For a simple pendulum, ℓ = (T /2π)2 g. If the period is parallel-axis theorem useful.
known precisely (∆T ≈ 0), then the fractional errors
in ℓ and g are the same, i.e., ∆ℓ/ℓ = ∆g/g = 1 mgal÷
980 gal ≈ 10−6 .

Problem
28. A pendulum consists of a 320-g solid ball 15.0 cm
in diameter, suspended by an essentially massless
string 80.0 cm long. Calculate the period of this
pendulum, treating it first as a simple pendulum
and then as a physical pendulum. How much
error is introduced by the simple pendulum
approximation? Hint: Remember the parallel-axis figure 15-38 Problem 29 Solution.
theorem.

Solution Solution
p
Forqa simple pendulum, Tsimp = 2π ℓ/g = p
Equation 15-16 gives T = 2π I/M
p gℓ =
2π 0.875 m/9.8 m/s2 = 1.877 . . . s. The more exact
p
2 2
2π (M R + M R )/M gR = 2π 2R/g, where we
expression for this type of physical pendulum (called used the parallel axis theorem for I, with ℓ = h = R.
Borda’s pendulum) is
p q Problem
2


Tphys = 2π I/mgℓ = 2π 2 2 /mgℓ
5 mR + mℓ 30. A solid disk of mass M and radius R is mounted
on a horizontal axle, as shown in Fig. 15-39. A
p
= Tsimp 1 + (2R2 /5ℓ2 )
p spring of spring constant k is connected to the disk
= Tsimp 1 + 0.4(7.5/87.5)2 at a point 12 R above the axle, and in equilibrium
= (1.00147 . . .)Tsimp = 1.880 . . . s. runs horizontally to a wall. If the disk is rotated
slightly away from equilibrium, what is the
The fractional error is (Tphys − Tsimp )/Tphys = 0.147%. angular frequency of the resulting oscillations?
Hint: For small θ, sin θ ≃ θ and cos θ ≃ 1.

Solution
For small (approximately horizontal) displacements of
the end of the spring, x ≈ 12 Rθ. The restoring torque of
the spring about the central axle, τ ≈ −( 21 R)(kx) ≈
− 41 kR2 θ, equals I(d2 θ/dt2 ) for the disk. This is the
equation
q for simple
q harmonic motion p with ω =
1 2 1 2 1 2
( 4 kR )/I = ( 4 kR )/( 2 M R ) = k/2M.

Problem 28 Solution.

Problem
29. A thin, uniform hoop of mass M and radius R is
suspended from a thin horizontal rod and set figure 15-39 Problem 30 Solution.
oscillating with small amplitude, as shown in
Fig. 15-38. Show that the period of the
 CHAPTER 15 237

Problem Problem
31. A point mass m is attached to the rim of an 32. Repeat the previous problem for the case when
otherwise uniform solid disk of mass M and radius the disk does not contact the ground but is
R (Fig. 15-40). The disk is rolled slightly away mounted on a frictionless horizontal axle through
from its equilibrium position and released. It rolls its center. Why is your answer different?
back and forth without slipping. Show that the
period of this motion is given by Solution
p
T = 2π 3M R/2mg. The net (restoring) torque about the axle is due only
to the point mass, therefore τ = −mgR sin θ = Iα,
Solution where I = 21 M R2 + mR2 . For small angles, sin θ ≈ θ,
so α = −(mgR/I)θ, which is the equation for simple
An exact solution of this problem requires advanced harmonic motion with period
methods in analytical mechanics. However, there are p p
two simple heuristic arguments showing that the T = 2π I/mgR = 2π (R/g)(1 + M/2m).
period given is approximately correct, for small Alternatively, we could use Equation 15-16 for a
displacements from equilibrium, if the point mass is physical pendulum, whose CM is suspended a distance
also assumed to be much smaller than the mass of the ℓ =pmR/(m + M ) from the axle. Then T =
disk, i.e., m ≪ M. 2π I/(m + M )gℓ , as before. This result is not the
Consider the disk when it is displaced by a small same as that of the previous problem, because the
angle, θ ≪ 1, from equilibrium, as shown in the sketch. forces acting are different (there is an axle, there is no
The unbalanced torque about the point of contact, O friction, etc.). (Also, in this problem there is no
(which is instantaneously at rest for rolling without restriction on the relative size of the masses, whereas
slipping) is τ = Iα = −mgR sin θ ≈ −mgRθ. This is a the answer to Problem 31 holds only for m ≪ M.)
restoring torque because it is in the opposite direction
to the angular displacement. If we neglect m compared
to M, the rotational inertia is just that of the disk
about O, or I = 12 M R2 + M R2 = 23 M R2 (recall
Equation 12-20), so α ≈ − mgRθ/I = −(2mg/3M R)θ.
This is the equation for simple harmonic motion (see
Equation 15-13) with period T = 2π/ω = 2π×
p
3M R/2mg (see Equation 15-14).
Alternatively, the potential energy varies like that
of just the point mass (since that of the disk is
constant when it rolls on a horizontal surface), so
U = mgy = mgR(1 − cos θ) ≈ 12 mgRθ2 , for small θ.
For m ≪ M, the kinetic energy is approximately that
of just the disk, rolling without slipping, or K =
1 2 1 3 2 2
2 Iω = 2 ( 2 M R )(dθ/dt) . The total energy is E =
1 1 3
K + U ≈ 2 (mgR)θ + 2 ( 2 M R2 )(dθ/dt)2 . By analogy
2

with a mass-spring system (where E = 21 kx2 +

1 2
2 m(dx/dt) ), this represents simple harmonic
p
motion
with angular frequency (analogous to k/m) of Problem 32 Solution.
q p
(mgR)/( 23 M R2 ) = 2mg/3M R (see also
Problem 44).
Problem
33. A cyclist turns her bicycle upside down to tinker
with it. After she gets it upside down, she notices
the front wheel executing a slow, small-amplitude
back-and-forth rotational motion with a period of
870 12 s. Considering the wheel to be a thin ring of
mass 600 g and radius 30 cm, whose only
figure 15-40 Problem 31 Solution. irregularity is the presence of the tire valve stem,
determine the mass of the valve stem.
238 CHAPTER 15
Solution
The bicycle wheel may be regarded as a physical
pendulum, with rotational inertia I = M R2 + mR2
about its central axle, where M = 600 g is the mass of
the wheel (thin ring) and m is the mass of the valve
stem (a circumferential point mass). The distance of
the CM from the axle is given by (M + m)ℓ = mR
(this is just Equation 10-4, with origin at the center of
the wheel so x1 = 0 for M, x2 = R for m, and xcm =
ℓ). For small oscillations, the period is given by
Equation 15-16 (where Mp+ m is the total mass),
therefore T = 2π/ω = 2π I/(M + m)gℓ = 2π×
p ω 2 = k/m.
(M + m)R2 /mgR . Solving for m, we find m =
M [(g/R)(T /2π)2 − 1]−1 = (600 g)[(9.8/0.3)×
(12/2π)2 − 1]−1 = 5.04 g.
Problem
34. A mass m is mounted between two springs of
constants k1 and k2 , as shown in Fig. 15-41.
Show that the angular frequency of oscillation is
given by
p origin—i.e., that its path is circular—and find
ω = (k1 + k2 )/m.
figure 15-41 Problem 34.
Solution
At equilibrium, both springs are either extended or
compressed, since their forces must be in opposite
directions. If the mass is moved by an amount ∆x to
the right of the equilibrium position, the force of the
first spring increases by k1 ∆x to the left, and the force
of the second spring decreases by k2 ∆x to the right
(which is also an increase to the left). Thus, the net
force is (k1 + k2 )∆x to the left, which represents a
restoring force (opposite to the displacement ∆x to
the right). The effective spring
p constant is k1 + k2 ,
and angular frequency ω = (k1 + k2 )/m for
oscillations about the equilibrium position.
Problem
35. Repeat the previous problem for the case when
the springs are connected as in Fig. 15-42.
k1 k2
m
figure 15-42 Problem 35.
Solution
The effective spring constant for this combination (see
Chapter 5, Problem 73(b)) is k = k1 k2 /(k1 + k2 ), and
Section 15-4: Circular Motion and Simple
Harmonic Motion
Problem
36. An object undergoes simple harmonic motion in
two mutually perpendicular directions, its position
given by r = A sin ωtı̂ + A cos ωt̂. (a) Show that
the object remains a fixed distance from the
that distance. (b) Find an expression for the
object’s velocity. (c) Show that the speed remains
constant, and find its value. (d) What is the
angular speed of the object in its circular path?
Solution
(a)
p The object’s distance from the origin is |r| =
(A sin ωt)2 + (A cos ωt)2 = A, a constant, so its path
is a circle with that radius. (b) Differentiating, we find
v = dr/dt = ωA cos ωtı̂ − ωA sin ωt̂. (Note that v · r =
0, as required for
p circular motion.) (c) The object’s
speed is |v| = (ωA cos ωt)2 + (−ωA sin ωt)2 = ωA,
also a constant. (d) From Equation 12-4, the angular
speed is v/r = ωA/A = ω.
Problem
37. The equation for an ellipse is
x2 y2
2
+ 2 = 1.
a b
Show that two-dimensional simple harmonic
motion whose two components have different
amplitudes and are π/2 out of phase gives rise to
elliptical motion. How are a and b related to the
amplitudes?
Solution
Simple harmonic motions in the x and y directions,
with different amplitudes and π/2 out of phase, are
x = a cos(ωt + φ) and y = b cos(ωt + φ ± π/2) =
∓b sin(ωt + φ). These describe an elliptical path

with semi-major or minor axis equal to the amplitudes,
a or b, since (x/a)2 + (y/b)2 = cos2 (ωt + φ) +
sin2 (ωt + φ) = 1.
Problem
38. The x and y components of motion of a body are
harmonic with frequency ratio 1.75 : 1. How many
oscillations must each component undergo before
the body returns to its initial position?
Solution
Since ωx /ωy = 1.75/1 = 7/4, seven oscillations in the x
direction are completed for four in the y direction.
Section 15-5: Energy in Simple Harmonic
Motion
Problem
39. A 1400-kg car with poor shock absorbers is
bouncing down the highway at 20 m/s, executing
vertical harmonic motion at 0.67 Hz. If the
amplitude of the oscillations is 18 cm, what is the
total energy in the oscillations? What fraction of
the car’s kinetic energy is this? Neglect rotational
energy of the wheels and the fact that not all the
car’s mass participates in the oscillation.
Solution
The total vibrational energy is Evib = 21 kA2 =
1 2 2 1 2 2
2 mω A = 2 (1400 kg)(2π×0.67 Hz) (0.18 m) =
402 J. The car’s total energy is E = Etrans + Evib =
1 2 1 2
2 M vcm + Evib ≈ 2 (1400 kg)(20 m/s) = 280 kJ, so
Evib /E is only about 0.144%.
Problem
40. A 450-g mass on a spring is oscillating at 1.2 Hz.
The total energy of the oscillation is 0.51 J. What
is the amplitude of oscillation?
Solution
The total energy of a one-dimensional mass-spring
system is E = 12 kA2 = 21 mω 2 A2 (see Section 15-5), so
p p
A = 2E/mω 2 = 2(0.51 J)/(0.45 kg)÷
(2π×1.2 Hz) = 20.0 cm.
Problem
41. The motion of a particle is described by
x = (45 cm)[sin(πt + π/6)],
with x in cm and t in seconds. At what time is the
potential energy twice the kinetic energy? What is
the position of the particle at this time?
CHAPTER 15 239
Solution
The condition that the potential energy equal twice
the kinetic energy implies that U (t) = 21 kx(t)2 =
2
√
2K(t)p= mv(t) , or ωx(t)/v(t) = ± 2, where
ω = k/m. For x(t) = (45 cm) sin(πt + π/6) as given
(note that ω = π(s−1 )), v(t) = dx/dt = ω(45 cm)×
cos(πt + π/6), so the
√ above condition becomes
tan(πt + π/6) = ± 2. There are four angles in each
cycle which satisfy this (since tan θ = − tan(π − θ) =
tan(π + θ) = − tan(2π − θ)), which are π(t + 61 ) =
0.955, 2.19, 4.10, and 5.33 radians. (We chose the
cycle with phases between 0 and 2π radians; for any
other cycle, an integer multiple of 2π can be added to
these angles.) The times corresponding to these
phases are t = (0.955/π) − 61 = 0.137 s, 0.529 s, 1.14 s,
and 1.53 s, respectively. (An integer multiple of 2 can
be added to get the times for any other cycle.) The
positions of the particle corresponding to these phases
are x(0.137 s) = (45 cm) sin(0.955) = 36.7 cm =
x(0.529 s) = −x(1.14 s) = −x(1.53 s), since
sin θ = sin(π − θ) = −sin(π + θ) = −sin(2π − θ).
(During each cycle, the particle passes each of the
points ±36.7 cm twice, traveling with the same speed,
but in opposite directions.)
Problem
42. A torsional oscillator of rotational inertia
1.6 kg·m2 and torsional constant 3.4 N·m/rad has
a total energy of 4.7 J. What are its maximum
angular displacement and maximum angular
speed?
Solution
For a torsional oscillator, E = 21 κA2 = 12 Iω 2 A2 =
1 2
p
2 I(dθ/dt)max , therefore A = 2E/κ =
p
2(4.7 J)/(3.4 N·m)
p = 1.66 rad
p = 95.3 , and
◦
(dθ/dt)max = ωA = 2E/I = 2(4.7 J)/(1.6 kg·m2 ) =
2.42 s−1 = 139◦/s.
Problem
43. Show that the potential energy of a simple
pendulum is proportional to the square of the
angular displacement in the small-amplitude limit.
Solution
The potential energy of a simple pendulum (see
Example 8-6 and Fig. 8-14) is U = mgh =
mgℓ(1 − cos θ). For small angles, cos θ ≈ 1 − 12 θ2 ,
so U ≈ 21 mgℓθ2 .
240 CHAPTER 15

Problem Problem
44. The total energy of a mass-spring system is the 46. A mass m is free to slide on a frictionless track
sum of its kinetic and potential energy: E = whose height y as a function of horizontal position
1 2 1 2
2 mv + 2 kx . Assuming E remains constant, x is given by y = ax2 , where a is a constant with
differentiate both sides of this expression with the units of inverse length. The mass is given an
respect to time and show that Equation 15-4 initial displacement from the bottom of the track
results. Hint: Remember that v = dx/dt. and then released. Find an expression for the
period of the resulting motion.
Solution
Since E is a constant, Solution
dE

d 1 2 1

dx dv The potential energy, relative to the bottom of the
2
=0= kx + mv = kx + mv . track, is U = mgy = mgax2 (analogous to 12 kx2 ), so
dt dt 2 2 dt dt
we suspect that the x component of the motion is
Dividing by v = dx/dt, we find m(dv/dt) = simple harmonic motion with “spring p constant”
m(d2 x/dt2 ) = −kx. k =√ 2mga. Then the period is T = 2π m/k =
2π/ 2ga . Indeed, Fx = −dU/dx = −2mgax =
Problem md2 x/dt
√
2
represents simple harmonic motion with
45. A solid cylinder of mass M and radius R is ω = 2ga . (The y component of the motion, however,
mounted on an axle through its center. The axle is is not simple harmonic motion.)
attached to a horizontal spring of constant k, and
the cylinder rolls back and forth without slipping Section 15-6: Damped Harmonic Motion
(Fig. 15-43). Write the statement of energy Problem
conservation for this system, and differentiate it to
47. A 250-g mass is mounted on a spring of constant
obtain an equation analogous to Equation 15-4
k = 3.3 N/m. The damping constant for this
(see previous problem). Comparing your result
system is b = 8.4×10−3 kg/s. How many
with Equation 15-4, determine the angular
oscillations will the system undergo during the
frequency of the motion.
time the amplitude decays to 1/e of its original
value?

Solution
Since the damping constant is small, the motion is
under-damped and Equation 15-20 applies. The
time for the amplitude to decay to 1/e of its original
value isp
t = 2m/b = 59.5 s, while the period is
figure 15-43 Problem 45.
T = 2π m/k = 1.73 s, therefore the number of
corresponding oscillations is 59.5/1.73 = 34.4.

Solution Problem
With reference to Equation 12-24 (and the condition 48. The vibration of a piano string can be described
v = ωR for rolling without slipping) K = 12 M v 2 + by an equation analogous to Equation 15-20. If
1 2 1 2 1 1 2 2 3 2 the quantity analogous to b/2m in that equation
2 Icm ω = 2 M v + 2 ( 2 M R )(v/R) = 4 M v . The
1 2
potential energy of the spring is U = 2 kx , where has the value 2.8 s−1 , how long will it take the
v = dx/dt, so E = K + U = 34 M (dx/dt)2 + 12 kx2 . vibration amplitude to drop to half its original
Differentiating, we find: value?
  2   
dE 3 dx d x 1 dx Solution
=0 = M ·2 + k · 2x , or
dt 4 dt dt2 2 dt
From Equation 15-20, one sees that the amplitude is
d2 x 2k one half the initial value when |x| /A = 12 =
=− x ≡ −ω 2 x.
dt2 3M exp{−(2.8 s−1 )t} or t = (ln 2)/(2.8 s−1 ) = 0.248 s
(The energy method is particularly convenient for (see Example 15-7).
analyzing small oscillations, since complicated details
of the forces can be avoided.)

Section 15-7: Driven Oscillations and
Resonance
Problem
49. A mass-spring system has b/m = ω0 /5, where b is
the damping constant and ω0 the natural
frequency. How does its amplitude when driven at
frequencies 10% above and below ω0 compare with
its amplitude at ω0 ?
Solution
The amplitude at resonance (ωd = ω0 ) is Ares = F0 ÷
bω0 , so that Equation 15-23 can be rewritten as:
A A (bω0 /m)
= = p 2
Ares (F0 /bω0 ) (ωd − ω02 )2 + b2 ωd2 /m2
" #−1/2
 mω 2  ω 2 2
0 d ωd2
= −1 + 2
b ω02 ω0
If (mω0 /b) = 5, and (ωd /ω0 )p
= 1.1 (10% above
resonance), then A/Ares = 1/ 25(1.21 − 1)2 + 1.21 =
65.8%, whilepfor ωd /ω0 = 0.9 (10% below resonance),
A/Ares = 1/ 25(0.81 − 1)2 + 0.81 = 76.4%.
Problem
50. A car’s front suspension has a natural frequency of
0.45 Hz. The car’s front shock absorbers are worn
out, so they no longer provide critical damping.
The car is driving on a bumpy road with bumps
40 m apart. At a certain speed, the driver notices
that the car begins to shake violently. What
speed?
Solution
The peak amplitude occurs at resonance, when
ωd = ω0, so the car receives an impulse from the
bumps once each period. It therefore travels the
distance between bumps in one period, or 40 m = vT0 .
Thus v = 40 m/T0 = (40 m)f0 = (40 m)(0.45 Hz) =
18 m/s = 64.8 km/h. (Recall f0 = 1/T0 .)
Problem
51. Show by direct substitution that Equation 15-22
satisfies Equation 15-21 with A given by
Equation 15-23.
Solution
When Equation 15-22 is substituted into
Equation 15-21, one obtains m[−ωd2 A cos(ωd t + φ)] =
−kA cos(ωd t + φ) − b[−ωdA sin(ωd t + φ)] +
F0 [cos(ωd t + φ)cos φ + sin(ωd t + φ)sin φ], where we let
ωd t = ωd t + φ − φ in the F0 -term, and used a
trigonometric identity. This equation is true if the
CHAPTER 15 241
coefficients of the sin(ωd t + φ) and cos(ωd t + φ) terms
on each side are equal, respectively, that is, −mωd2 A =
−kA + F0 cos φ, and 0 = bωd A + F0 sin φ. Let
ω02 = k/m, and these equations become F0 cos φ =
−m(ωd2 − ω02 )A, and F0 sin φ = −bωd A. Squaring and
adding, we get Equation 15-23.
Problem
52. A harmonic oscillator is underdamped provided
√
that the damping constant b is less than 2mω0 ,
where ω0 is the natural frequency of undamped
motion. Show that for an underdamped oscillator,
Equation 15-23 has a maximum for a driving
frequency less than ω0 .
Solution
Equation 15-23 for A is a maximum when the
denominator of the right-hand side is a minimum. The
condition for this is
d (ωd2 − ω0 )2 + b2 ωd2
 
dωd m2
2(ωd2 − ω02 )(2ωd ) + 2ωd b2
=0= .
m2
Since ωd 6= 0, we may divide by it, obtaining ωd∗ =
p
2
ω0 − b2 /2m2 for the frequency of the maximum.
Evidently, ωd∗ < ω0 . Although the motion is
underdamped for b < 2mω0 , A has a maximum √ in the
physical region (ωd > 0, b > 0) only for b < 2mω0 ,
and A has sharp resonance-type behavior for
b ≪ 2mω0 .
Paired Problems
Problem
53. A particle undergoes simple harmonic motion with
amplitude 25 cm and maximum speed 4.8 m/s.
Find (a) the angular frequency, (b) the period,
and (c) the maximum acceleration.
Solution
(a) Since vmax = ωA, ω = (4.8 m/s)/(0.25 m) =
19.2 s−1 . (b) T = 2π/ω = 0.327 s. (c) amax =
ωvmax = 92.2 m/s2 .
Problem
54. A particle undergoes simple harmonic motion with
maximum speed 1.4 m/s and maximum
2
acceleration 3.1 m/s . Find (a) the angular
frequency, (b) the period, and (c) the amplitude of
the motion.
242 CHAPTER 15
Solution
2
(a) ω = amax /vmax = (3.1 m/s )/(1.4 m/s) = 2.21 s −1
. 58. A meter stick is suspended from a frictionless rod
(b) T = 2π/ω = 2.84 s. (c) A = vmax /ω = 63.2 cm.
Problem
55. A massless spring of spring constant k = 74 N/m
is hanging from the ceiling. A 490-g mass is
hooked onto the unstretched spring and allowed to
drop. Find (a) the amplitude and (b) the period
of the resulting motion.
Solution
(a) The distance from the initial position of the mass
on the unstretched spring, to the equilibrium position,
where the net force is zero, is just the amplitude, since
the initial velocity for a dropped mass is zero. Then at
the equilibrium position, mg = kA, or A = (0.49 kg)×
2
(9.8 m/s )/(74 N/m) = 6.49 cm. (Alternatively, when
dropped at the unstretched position (zero spring
force), the initial acceleration has its maximum
magnitude which is just g, so amax = g = ω 2 Apgives
the same result, since ω 2 = k/m.) (b) T = 2π m/k =
0.511 s.
Problem
56. A massless spring is hanging from the ceiling. A
mass is hooked onto the end of the spring and
allowed to drop. If the amplitude of the resulting
motion is 20 cm, what is its frequency?
Solution
If the mass is dropped from the unstretched position
of the spring, the maximum acceleration has
magnitude g (at the top of the oscillations) as
mentioned in the solution to Problem p 55. Then
2
a
q max = ω A = g, implies f = ω/2π = g/A/2π =
(9.8 m/s2 )/(0.2 m)/2π = (7/2π) Hz = 1.11 Hz.
Problem
57. A meter stick is suspended from one end and set
swinging. What is the period of the resulting
oscillations, assuming they have small amplitude?
Solution
The meter stick is a physical pendulum whose CM is
ℓ = 0.5 m below the point of suspension through one
end. The rotational inertia of the stick about one end
is 13 M (1 m)2 , so Equation 15-16 gives the period as
p p
T = 2π I/M gℓ = 2π 2(1 m)/3g = 1.64 s.
Problem
inserted through a small hole at the 25 cm mark.
What is the period of small-amplitude oscillations
about the stick’s equilibrium position?
Solution
If the point of suspension of the meter stick in the
previous problem is moved so that ℓ = 0.25 m and
1
I = 12 M (1 m)2 + M (0.25 m)2 = 37 M (0.25 m)2 , the
p
period becomes T = 2π 7(1 m)/12g = 1.53 s.
Problem
59. Two balls each of unknown mass m are mounted
on opposite ends of a 1.5-m-long rod of mass
850 g. The system is suspended from a wire
attached to the center of the rod and set into
torsional oscillations. If the torsional constant of
the wire is 0.63 N·m/rad and the period of the
oscillations is 5.6 s, what is the unknown mass m?
Solution
The period of a torsional pendulum is given by
p
Equation 15-14, ω = 2π/T = κ/I. The rotational
inertia of the rod and two masses, about an axis
perpendicular to the rod and through its center, is
1
I = (T /2π)2 κ = 12 M ℓ2 + 2m( 21 ℓ)2 so m = 12 [(T ÷
1 1
πℓ) κ − 3 M ] = 2 [(5.6 s/π×1.5 m)2 (0.63 N·m) −
2
1
3 (0.85 kg)] = 303 g.
Problem
60. Figure 15-44 shows a bird feeder that consists of a
340-g solid circular disk 50 cm in diameter
suspended by a wire attached at the center. Two
65-g birds land at opposite ends of a diameter, and
the system goes into torsional oscillation at 2.6 Hz.
What is the torsional constant of the wire?
Solution
The rotational inertia of the bird feeder (solid disk)
and birds (point masses m) about the wire is I =
1 2 2
2 M R + 2mR , so solving Equation 15-14 for the
torsional constant, we find: κ = (2πf )2 I = (2π×
2
2.6 Hz) [ 21 (0.34 kg) + 2(0.065 kg)](0.25 m)2 =
5.00 N·m/rad.
Problem
61. Two mass-spring systems with the same mass are
undergoing oscillatory motion with the same
amplitudes. System 1 has twice the frequency of
system 2. How do (a) their energies and (b) their
maximum accelerations compare?

340 g
50 cm
figure 15-44 Problem 60.
Solution
(a) The energy of a mass-spring system is E =
1 2 2
2 mω A (see Section 15.5). If m and A are the same,
but ω1 = 2ω2 , then E1 = 4E2 . (b) The maximum
acceleration is amax = ω 2 A, so a1,max = 4a2,max as
well.
Problem
62. Two mass-spring systems have the same mass and
the same total energy. The amplitude of system 1
is twice that of system 2. How do (a) their
frequencies and (b) their maximum accelerations
compare?
Solution
If the mass and total energy of two mass-spring
systems is the same, then ω1 A1 = ω2 A2 . Therefore,
A1 = 2A2 implies (a) ω1 = 12 ω2 and (b) a1,max =
ω12 A1 = ( 21 ω2 )2 (2A2 ) = 21 a2,max .
Supplementary Problems
Problem
63. While waiting for your plane to take off, you
suspend your keys from a thread and set the
resulting pendulum oscillating. It completes
exactly 90 cycles in 1 minute. You repeat the
experiment as the plane accelerates down the
runway, and now find the pendulum completes
exactly 91 cycles in 1 minute. Find the plane’s
acceleration.
CHAPTER 15 243
Solution
The solution of Problem 21 shows that the period of a
simple pendulum (point mass suspended in a constant
gravitational field)
p in an accelerating reference frame is
T = 2π/ω = 2π ℓ/ |g − a0 |. If a0 is perpendicular to
g
p(as for the air plane in this problem) then |g − a0 | =
2 2 2
pg + a0 , and the circular frequency is ω =
g 2 + a20 /ℓ. Since ω02 = g/ℓ p
at rest, we can eliminate ℓ
and solvep for a0 : (ω/ω0 )2 = 1 + (a0 /g)2 , or
(a0 /g) = (ω/ω0 )4 − 1. The ratio of the frequencies is
2
ω/ω0 = 91/90, so numerically, a0 = (9.8 m/s )×
p 2
(91/90)4 − 1 = 2.08 m/s .
Problem
64. A 500-g mass is suspended from a thread 45 cm
long that can sustain a maximum tension of 6.0 N
before breaking. What is the maximum allowable
amplitude for pendulum motion of this system?
Solution
It is shown in Example 15-4 that the greatest tension
in a simple pendulum occurs at the bottom of its
swing, where Tmax = mg(1 + A2 ), and A is the angular
amplitude. Forpthe thread in this problem, Tmax <
6.0 N, so A < (6.0 N/0.5×9.8 N) − 1 =
0.474 (rad) = 27.1◦. (Note that sin 27.1◦ = 0.456,
about 3.8% less than the angle itself, so this answer is
only approximate.)
Problem
65. A 500-g block on a frictionless surface is connected
to a rather limp spring of constant k = 8.7 N/m.
A second block rests on the first, and the whole
system executes simple harmonic motion with a
period of 1.8 s. When the amplitude of the motion
is increased to 35 cm, the upper block just begins
to slip. What is the coefficient of static friction
between the blocks?
Solution
If the surfaces of contact are horizontal, it is the
frictional force which accelerates the upper block,
hence fs = m2 a(t) ≤ µs N = µs m2 g, or a(t) ≤ µs g.
In simple harmonic motion, amax = ω 2 A, so when
the upper block begins to slip, ω 2 A = µs g, or
2
µs = (2π/1.8 s)2 (0.35 m/9.8 m/s ) = 0.44. [Note: the
data given in the problem which were not used to find
µs (i.e., k and m1 ) can be used p
to calculate that
m2 = 214 g, since ω = 2π/T = k/(m1 + m2 ).]
Problem
66. The potential energy of a 75-g particle is given by
U = ax2 − bx4 , where a = 3.5 J/m2 , b = 1.2 J/m4 ,
244 CHAPTER 15

Problem
67. Repeat Problem 46 for a small solid ball of mass
M and radius R that rolls without slipping on the
parabolic track.

Solution
Problem 65 Solution.
The potential energy of the ball is U = mgy = mgax2 ,
and its kinetic energy (rolling without slipping) is
and x is in meters. (a) Show that there is a (from Equation 12-24) K = 12 M v 2 + 21 Icm ω 2 =
1 2 1 2 2 2 7 2
metastable equilibrium at x = 0. (b) Find the 2 M v + 2 ( 5 M R )(v/R) = 10 M v . Since the total
frequency of small amplitude oscillations about mechanical energy, E = U + K, is constant,
this equilibrium. Hint: For small x, x4 ≪ x2 . dE d

7

2 2
(c) What is the maximum amplitude for =0= M gax + M v
dt dt 10
oscillatory (but not necessarily simple harmonic)
dx 7 dv
motion to occur? = 2M gax + Mv .
dt 5 dt
Solution Notepthat in this problem (and in Problem 46)
(a) The equilibrium points (for one-dimensional v = (dx/dt)2 + (dy/dt)2 , so the motion is not
motion) are solutions of the equation dU/dx harmonic, in general. However, for small
p =0=
2x(a − 2bx2 ). These are x = 0 and x = ± a/2b = displacements, v ≈ dx/dt, and d2 x/dt2 = −(10ga/7)x,
±1.21 m. d2 U/dx2 = 2(a − 6bx2 ) is positive for x = 0, which is simple p
harmonic motion with period
which represents a relative minimum of the potential T = 2π/ω = 2π 7/10ga.
energy and therefore a point of metastable
equilibrium. (x = 0 is not an Problem
pabsolute minimum
because U (x) < 0 for |x| > a/b,pin fact U → −∞ for 68. A child twirls around on a swing, twisting the
|x| → ∞. d2 U/dx2 < 0 for x = ± a/2b, so these swing ropes, as shown in Fig. 15-45. As a result,
points are relative maxima of potential energy, the child and swing rise slightly, with the rise, h, in
representing unstable equilibria.) (b) In one- cm equal to the square of the number of full turns
dimensional motion, Fx = −dU/dx = −2x(a − of the swing. When the child stops twisting up the
2bx2 ) = md2 x/dt2 . For small x, 2bx2 ≪ a so swing, it goes into torsional oscillation. What is
d2 x/dt2 ≈ −(2a/m)x, which is the equation
p for simple the period of this oscillation, assuming that all the
harmonic motion with frequency f = 2a/m/2π = potential energy of the system is gravitational?
1.54 Hz. (c) The motion is oscillatory as long as the The combined mass of the child and swing is
particle is in the potential well surrounding x = 0 (see 20 kg, and the rotational inertia of the pair about
sketch). This
p is the case provided the total energy the appropriate vertical axis is 0.12 kg·m2 .
E < U (± a/2b) = a2 /4b = 2.55 J, p and the maximum
displacement from the origin, |x| < a/2b = 1.21 m. Solution
(See Problems 8-43 and 83, which deal with the The number of full turns (revolutions) is θ/2π, so
negative of this potential energy function, however.) h = (1 cm)(θ/2π)2 , where θ is the angle (in radians)
measured around the appropriate vertical axis. The
total energy, E = M gh + 12 Iω 2 = M g(1 cm)(θ/2π)2 +
1 2
2 I(dθ/dt) , is constant, so
    2 
dE θ dθ dθ d θ
= 0 = M g(1 cm) 2 +I , or
dt 2π dt dt dt2
d2 θ
 
M g(1 cm)
= − θ.
dt2 2π 2 I
Problem 66 Solution. This is simple harmonic motion with period
s
2π 2 I
T = 2π
M g(1 cm)

s p
2 2(0.12 kg·m2 )
= 2π 2 = 6.91 s.
(20 kg)(9.8 m/s )(0.01 m)
figure 15-45 Problem 68 Solution.
Problem
69. A 1.2-kg block rests on a frictionless surface and is
attached to a horizontal spring of constant
k = 23 N/m (Fig. 15-46). The block is oscillating
with amplitude 10 cm and with phase constant
φ = −π/2. A block of mass 0.80 kg is moving from
the right at 1.7 m/s. It strikes the first block when
the latter is at the rightmost point in its
oscillation. The collision is completely inelastic,
and the two blocks stick together. Determine the
frequency, amplitude, and phase constant (relative
to the original t = 0) of the resulting motion.
1.2 kg 0.80 kg
1.7 m/s
figure 15-46 Problem 69.
Solution
The simple harmonic motion with just the first block
on the spring can be described by Equation 15-9 and
the given amplitude and phase constant; x(t) =
(10 cm)
p cos(ω1 t − pπ/2) = (10 cm) sin ω1 t, where
ω1 = k/m1 = (23 N/m)/(1.2 kg) = 4.38 s−1 . This
equation holds up to the time of the collision, i.e., for
t < tc , where tc = π/2ω1 , since for the rightmost point
of oscillation, sin ω1 tc = 1, or ω1 tc = π/2. (This
specifies the original zero of time appropriate to the
given phase constant of −π/2.)
Equation 15-9 also describes the simple harmonic
motion after the collision; x(t) = A cos(ω2 t + φ) for
CHAPTER 15 245
t > tc , where ω2 = k/(m1 + m2 ) = 3.39 s−1 is the
angular frequency when both blocks oscillate on the
spring (and f2 = ω2 /2π = 0.540 Hz, as asked in the
problem.) It follows from this that v(t) = −ω2 A×
sin(ω2 t + φ). The amplitude A and phase constant φ
can be determined from these two equations evaluated
just after the collision, essentially at tc , if we assume
that the collision takes place almost instantaneously;
then conservation of momentum during the collision
can be applied (see Equation 11-4). Just after the
collision, x(tc ) = 10 cm (given) and v(tc ) = (m1 v1 +
m2 v2 )/(m1 + m2 ), where just before the collision,
v1 = 0 (given m1 at rightmost point of its original
motion) and v2 = −1.7 m/s (also given). Numerically,
v(tc ) = (−1.7 m/s)(0.8)/(0.8 + 1.2) = −68 cm/s. Thus,
the two equations become x(tc ) = 10 cm = A ×
cos(ω2 tc + φ), and v(tc ) = −68 cm/s = −ω2 A ×
sin(ω2 tc + φ), where ω2 andp tc are known. (In fact,
ω t
√2 c = ω 2 π/2ω 1 = (π/2) m1 /(m1 + m2 ) =
0.6 (π/2) radians = 69.7 .) ◦
Solving
p for A (using sin2 + cos2 = 1), we find
A = x(tc )2 + [−v(tc )/ω2 ]2 =
p
(10 cm)2 + (68 cm/3.39)2 = 22.4 cm. Solving for φ
(using sin / cos = tan), we find φ = tan−1 [−v(tc )÷
ω2 x(tc )] − ω2 tc = tan−1 (68/3.39×10) − 69.7◦ =
−6.22◦ = −0.109 radians.
(Note: The solution for A is equivalent to
calculating the various energies in the second simple
harmonic motion, since just after the collision,
2
K(tc ) = 21 (m1 + m2 )v (tc ) = 12 (2 kg)(−0.68 m/s)2 =
0.462 J, U (tc ) = 2 kx(tc ) = 21 (23 N/m)(0.1 m)2 =
1 2
0.115 J, E = K(tc ) + U (tc ) = 0.577 J = 21 kA2 , or A =
p
2(0.577 J)/(23 N/m). Once A is known, φ can also
be found from either expression for x(tc ) or v(tc ), e.g.,
ω2 tc + φ = cos−1 (10/22.4) = sin−1 (68/3.39×22.4).)
Problem
70. The magnitude of the gravitational acceleration
inside Earth is given approximately by g(r) =
g0 (r/RE ), where g0 is the surface value, r is the
distance from Earth’s center, and RE is Earth’s
radius, the acceleration is directed toward Earth’s
center. Suppose a narrow hole were drilled
straight through the center of Earth and out the
other side. Neglecting air resistance, show that an
object dropped into this hole executes simple
harmonic motion, and find an expression for the
period. Evaluate and compare with the period of a
satellite in a circular orbit not far above Earth’s
surface.
Solution
The force of gravity is directed toward the center of
the Earth, so an object in this hole (not subject to any
246 CHAPTER 15

other forces) has an acceleration d2 r/dt2 = T0 = 1.00 s, plot the period given above versus
−(g0 /RE )r. This represents one-dimensional simple amplitude for amplitudes from 0 to 45◦ . By what
harmonic motion about r = 0 (compare p to percentage does the plotted period differ from T0
Equation
q 15-4), with period T = 2π RE /g0 = for 30◦ and 45◦ ?
2
2π (6.37×106 m)/(9.81 m/s ) = 84.4 min . Since
q Solution
2 3 /GM , the same as for a
g0 = GME /RE , T = 2π RE E Numerical values are displayed in the table and sketch
satellite in an Earth-grazing orbit. below.

Problem
θ0 1
sin2 ( 12 θ 0 ) 9
sin4 ( 21 θ0 ) (T − T 0 )/T 0
71. A small object of mass m slides without friction in 4 64

a circular bowl of radius R. Derive an expression 15 ◦

.0042593 .0000408 0.4%
for small-amplitude oscillations about equilibrium, 30◦ .016747 .000631 1.7%
and compare with that of a simple pendulum. 45◦ .03661 .00302 4.0%

Problem 72 Solution.

Problem 71 Solution. Problem

73. A mass m is connected between two springs of
length L, as shown in Fig. 15-47. At equilibrium,
the tension force in each spring is F0 . Find the
Solution period of oscillations perpendicular to the springs,
What is intended in this problem is consideration of assuming sufficiently small amplitude that the
just motion in a vertical plane through the axis of the magnitude of the spring tension is essentially
bowl. (This corresponds to the same initial conditions unchanged.
as for a simple pendulum. Other conditions lead to
motion like various conical pendulums.) The
tangential component of Newton’s second law is
−mg sin θ = m(d2 s/dt2 ), where s = Rθ. For small
angles, −g sin θ ≈ −gθ ≈ R(d2 θ/dt2 ). This is simple L L
harmonic motion, with the same equations as p for a
simple pendulum (see Problem 24), so ω = g/R and m
p
T = 2π R/g.

Problem
72. A more exact expression than Equation 15-18 for
the period of a simple pendulum is

1

1

9

1
  figure 15-47 Problem 73.
2 4
T = T0 1 + sin θ0 + sin θ0 + · · · ,
4 2 64 2
p
where T0 = 2π ℓ/g is the period in the limit of
arbitrarily small amplitude, and θ0 is the Solution
amplitude. The · · · indicates that additional terms Suppose that no forces with components in the
(in fact, infinitely many more) are needed for an direction of motion act on the mass other than the
exact expression. For a pendulum with spring forces. If m is given a small displacement
 CHAPTER 15 247

perpendicular to the springs (as sketched),

p the net Problem
2
force is Fy = −2F0 sin θ = −2F0 y/ L + y ≈ 2
75. A uniform piece of wire is bent into a V-shape
−2F0 y/L, for y ≪ L. Newton’s second law gives with angle θ between two legs of length ℓ. The
md2 y/dt2 = Fy , or d2 y/dt2 ≈ −(2F0 /mL)y. This is wire is placed over a pivot, as shown in Fig. 15-49.
the equation forpsimple harmonic motion with angular Show that the angular frequency of small-
frequency
p ω = 2F0 /mL and period T = 2π/ω = amplitude oscillations about this equilibrium is
2π mL/2F0 . given by
r
3g cos(θ/2)
ω= .
2ℓ
Solution
The CM of the bent wire is a distance h = (ℓ/2)×
cos(θ/2) from the pivot. The rotational inertia of the
Problem 73 Solution. bent wire (two thin rods) about the pivot is I =
2[ 31 ( 12 M )ℓ2 ] = 31 M ℓ2 , where M is the mass of the whole
wire. Equation 15-16 for the physical pendulum gives
r s r
Problem M gh M g(ℓ/2) cos(θ/2) 3g cos(θ/2)
ω= = 2
=
I M ℓ /3 2ℓ
74. A disk of radius R is suspended from a pivot
somewhere between its center and edge
(Fig. 15-48). For what pivot point will the period
of this physical pendulum be a minimum?

Suspension point

figure 15-48 Problem 74 Solution.

Solution
The period of the physical pendulum shown is
s s
1
I M R 2 + M ℓ2
T = 2π = 2π 2
M gℓ M gℓ
s
ℓ R2
= 2π + .
g 2gℓ
This is a minimum when
R2 R2
 
d ℓ 1
+ =0= − ,
dℓ g 2gℓ g 2gℓ2
√
or ℓ = R/ 2. (The fact that this represents a
minimum can be seen either by calculating d2 T ÷
dℓ2 > 0, or by noting that T → ∞ for ℓ → 0 and
ℓ → ∞, and so has a minimum between.)
248 CHAPTER 15

figure 15-49 Problem 75 Solution.

Problem
76. Integrating the nonconstant acceleration of a
harmonic oscillator over time from the time of
maximum displacement to the time of zero
displacement should give the velocity at zero
displacement. Carry out this integration, using
Equation 15-11 for the acceleration, and show that
your answer is just the maximum velocity.

Solution
The time of the maximum (positive) displacement is
given by the equation ωt1 + φ = 0, and the time of the
next zero displacement by ωt2 + φ = π/2, where the
displacement is given by Equation 15-9. Thus,
Z t2 Z t2
a dt = (−ω 2 A) cos(ωt + φ)dt
t1 t1
t2
 ω2A


= − sin(ωt + φ)
ω t1
= −ωA sin(π/2) + ωA sin(0) = −ωA.
This is the maximum velocity, which occurs at zero
displacement; it is negative because we assumed the
oscillator started at +A.