Physics · Class 11

Change a mass and spring

A stretched spring pulls the mass toward equilibrium; a compressed spring pushes it back. The restoring force produces SHM. Mass and stiffness determine period, while amplitude determines the extent of the oscillation.

Open the interactive experiment →

Change a mass and spring

சுருளின் மீள்விசை F = −kx. நிறை அதிகமானால் காலம் அதிகம்; சுருள் விறைப்பு அதிகமானால் காலம் குறையும்.

Key notes, relationships and model limits

Key relationship

F=−kx; ω=√(k/m); T=2π√(m/k); x=Acosωt.

Remember

Common trap

In ideal linear SHM, changing amplitude does not change period.

Model limits

Horizontal mass on a massless ideal spring with no friction; displacement measured from equilibrium. Hooke law remains valid throughout the chosen amplitude.

What you will learn

Predict spring period and connect restoring force with displacement.

Try the experiment

Try both scenarios, change one control, and predict the result before checking the graph and readouts.

Think of it this way

Change one input while keeping the others fixed, as you would in a controlled experiment.

Worked example

At initial extension 0.2 m, restoring force=−2 N and acceleration=−2 m/s². The peak speed is A√(k/m)=0.632 m/s.

Why this matters

The model connects change a mass and spring with an observable reading. Check the equation and assumptions before applying it.

Before you start

SI units · algebra · graph reading

Check your understanding

For m=1 kg and k=10 N/m, what is the period?

0.316 s
About 1.987 s
6.283 s

Read the explanation

T=2π√(1/10)=1.9869 s.

Course connection: Class XI Chapter 13. Consult the roadmap for CBSE, NEET, JEE Main and Advanced scope.