The spring constant can be determined from the oscillatory motion. For this case, Newton's second law gives

Question

(md^2x)/(dt^2) + kx = 0

where x is the displacement from the equilibrium position. The sample mass is suspended from the spring by a sample holder.

Does m in this formula include the mass of the sample holder?

Answer 1

Yes, the holder's mass must be included, since it oscillates with its contents.