Physics

Problem

Two blocks of equal mass are each attached to separate vertical ideal springs and are set into small–amplitude oscillations. Block C oscillates with a period of

0.60\,\text{s}

, while block D oscillates with a period of

0.80\,\text{s}

. Which of the following most accurately compares the stiffness constants

k_C

and

k_D

of the two springs? a)

k_C < k_D

because the spring with the longer period must be stiffer to reverse the block’s motion. b)

k_C > k_D

because the spring with the shorter oscillation period is stiffer. c)

k_C = k_D

since both blocks have the same mass. d)

k_C = 0.75\,k_D

because the student used

k\propto1/T

instead of

k\propto1/T^{2}

Browse the problem library