Tutorial 3 – Damped Oscillation contd..

Problem 1

The logarithmic decrement δ is defined to be the natural

logarithm of the ratio of successive maximum
displacements (in the same direction) of a free damped
oscillator. Show that δ=π/Q.

Find the spring constant k and damping constant b of a

damped oscillator having a mass of 5 Kg, frequency of
oscillation 0.5Hz and logarithmic decrement 0.02.
 Problem 2

(a) If the damping constant of a free oscillator is given by

γ=2ω0, the system is said to be critically damped. Show by
direct substitution that in this case the motion is given by
− 𝛾𝑡
𝑥= (𝐴+𝐵𝑡)𝑒 2
Where A and B are constants

(b) Sketch a graph between amplitude and time if the

above oscillator is displaced from its rest position by a
sudden impulse.
 Problem 3

(a) A mass of 10 Kg falls 50 cm onto the platform of a

spring scale, and sticks. The platform eventually
comes to rest 10 cm below its initial position. The
mass of the platform is 2 Kg. Find the Spring constant
(k).
(b) It is desired to put in a damping system so that scale
comes to rest in minimum time without overshoot.
This means that the scale must be critically damped.
Find the necessary damping constant and the equation
of motion of the platform after the mass hits.