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Mass on a spring

Definition

A mass on a spring refers to a system where a mass is attached to the end of a spring and can oscillate back and forth.

Analogy

Imagine you are sitting on a swing, with the seat representing the mass and the chains representing the spring. When you push off and start swinging, you experience oscillatory motion similar to how the mass on a spring moves.

Related terms

Periodic Motion: It refers to any motion that repeats itself in equal intervals of time.

Amplitude: The maximum displacement from equilibrium position in an oscillating system.

Hooke's Law: It states that the force exerted by a spring is directly proportional to its displacement from equilibrium.

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.