Spring Balance Physics Simulation
Calculating the weight of an oscillating body using spring mechanics
Problem Statement
A spring balance has a scale that reads from 0 to 50 kg. The length of the scale is 20 cm. A body suspended from this balance, when displaced and released, oscillates with a period of 0.6 s. What is the weight of the body?
Physics Principles
This problem demonstrates Hooke's Law and simple harmonic motion. The spring constant (k) is first determined from the maximum load, then used with the oscillation period to find the unknown mass.
1. Calculate maximum force: F = Mg = 50kg × 9.8m/s² = 490N
2. Find spring constant: k = F/l = 490N / 0.2m = 2450N/m
3. Relate period to mass: T = 2π√(m/k)
4. Solve for mass: m = (T/2π)² × k
5. Calculate weight: W = mg
Spring Constant (k)
2450
N/m
Oscillation Period (T)
0.6
seconds
Calculated Mass
22.36
kg
Weight of Body
219.17
Newtons
