Problem: A mass is oscillating with amplitude A at the end of a vertical spring of spring constant k.(a) The mass is increased by a factor of four. What is true about the period? Choose the best answer. A. The period is halved.B. The period doubles.C. The period increases by a factor of fourD. The period decreases by a factor of four (b) The mass is increased by a factor of four keeping A and k constant. What is true about the total mechanical energy?

Part (a)

Period:

$T = 2 π \sqrt{\frac{m}{k}}$

The period is directly proportional to the square root of the mass.

89% (439 ratings)

A mass is oscillating with amplitude A at the end of a vertical spring of spring constant k.

(a) The mass is increased by a factor of four. What is true about the period? Choose the best answer.

A. The period is halved.
B. The period doubles.
C. The period increases by a factor of four
D. The period decreases by a factor of four

(b) The mass is increased by a factor of four keeping A and k constant. What is true about the total mechanical energy?

What scientific concept do you need to know in order to solve this problem?

Our tutors have indicated that to solve this problem you will need to apply the Simple Harmonic Motion of Vertical Springs concept. You can view video lessons to learn Simple Harmonic Motion of Vertical Springs. Or if you need more Simple Harmonic Motion of Vertical Springs practice, you can also practice Simple Harmonic Motion of Vertical Springs practice problems.