An oscillator consists of a block attached to a spring (k = 299 N/m). At some time t, the position (measured from the system's equilibrium location), velocity, and acceleration of the block are x = 0.0817 m, v = -16.9 m/s, and a = -108 m/s2. Calculate (a) the frequency (in Hz) of oscillation, (b) the mass of the block, and (c) the amplitude of the motion

1 answer

(a) The frequency is
f = sqrt(k/m)/(2 pi)
You know k but do not know m. Get m from
m = F/a = -k x/a = -299*0.0817/(-108)= 0.226 kg
Now you can solve for f.
(b) You have m already
(c) At max amplitude X,
(1/2) k X^2 = total energy
= (1/2)m v^2 + (1/2) k x^2
where v and x are initial values.
Solve for X