Physics for Engineers
Problem Set 2: Answer the following problem on an 8 in x 13 in of bond paper with 3 cm upper margin spaced for you to
write your name and other information. Be sure to use the formulas we discussed derived from energy equations. If you
wish to use other formulas, include your derivations as you answer the questions.
1. As shown in the figure, a long, light piece of spring steel is clamped at its lower end and a 4.0 kg ball is fastened
to its top end. A horizontal force of 8.0 N is required to displaced the ball 20 cm to one side as shown. Assume the
system to undergo SHM when released. Find a) the force constant of the spring and b) the period with which the
ball will vibrate back and forth.
2. Two identical springs have k = 20 n/m. A 0.30-kg mass is connected to them as shown in the figure A and B. Find
the period of motion for each system. Ignore friction forces.
3. A 200-g mass in the figure is pushed to the left against the spring and compresses the spring 15 cm from its
equilibrium position. The system is the released, the mass shoots to the right. If friction can be ignored, how fast
will the mass be moving as it shoots away? Assume the mass of the spring to be very small.
4. A particle that is at the origin of coordinates at exactly t=0 vibrates about the origin along y-axis with a frequency
of 20 Hz and an amplitude of 3.0 cm. Give its equation of motion in centimeters.
5. A particle vibrates according to the equation x=20 cos 16t, where x is in centimeters. Find its amplitude,
frequency and position at exactly t= 0 s.
