Physics Demo Number: 120

Approximate

Run Time: 5 min

Simple Harmonic Motion of a Loaded Spring

Demo Description

A standard Harmonic Motion Spring is hung from the support rod on a column in lecture hall.

Masses may be hung from the spring to show simple harmonic motion.

Scientific Principles

• If one arranges a system that has force proportional to displacement and oppositely directed, simple harmonic motion will be its normal state of motion.

Equipment

• Harmonic Motion Spring

• Masses

• Hardware Stand (Optional)

Equipment Location

• Kit (120) on [E-3-6] contains the spring and two masses.

• A hardware stand (if desired) may be put together from components in [G-2] column.

• Or one may use one of the big hardware stands (next to the door into 4327 or next to the beginning of [H] Columns to right of desk).

Instructions

The first photo shows the spring hanging from the dedicated rod in Lecture Hall.

One may also use a hardware stand to support the loaded spring as seen in the second photo. Of course one may also choose to “wing it” and hold the spring by hand.

Writeup created by David A. Burba

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