Harmonic Oscillator

A simple harmonic motion can be used as a mathematical model for a variety of motions such as the oscillation of a spring.

Formula

The time period of a simple harmonic oscillator is calculated using:

T = 2π√(m/k)

Where:

• T = time period (s)
• m = mass (kg)
• k = spring constant (N/m)

Example

A mass of 500 kg is connected to a spring with spring constant 16000 N/m.

T = 2π√(500/16000) = 1.1 s