Understanding the Concepts
* Spring Constant (k): This represents the stiffness of the spring. A higher spring constant means a stiffer spring. In this case, k = 50 N/m.
* Period (T): The time it takes for one complete oscillation of the spring-mass system. We are given T = 2.00 s.
* Mass (m): This is what we need to find.
Formula
The period of oscillation for a spring-mass system is given by:
T = 2π√(m/k)
Solving for Mass (m)
1. Rearrange the formula to solve for mass (m):
m = (T² * k) / (4π²)
2. Substitute the given values:
m = (2.00 s² * 50 N/m) / (4π²)
3. Calculate:
m ≈ 2.53 kg
Answer
The mass that must be suspended from the spring to have a period of 2.00 seconds is approximately 2.53 kg.