In this experiment, we examine the kinematic motion of an object hanging on the end of a spring. By displacing the mass a small amount we place it into simple harmonic motion. By examing the oscillations over time we can calculate various values, such as the frequency and amplitude of the motion.
As well, we examine the effects of damping on the motion by placing a cardboard disk on top of the mass, creating resistance to the natural simple harmonic motion. The amplitude as a function of time is observed.
A 200 g mass is used on the spring. It is displaced approximately 6 cm from the hanging equilibrium position. The spring itself has a mass of approximately 177 g, and a spring constant of approximately 12 N/m. Run the movie to observe the motion. Click on the links below to go to the lab.