Spring Constant of a Trampoline
Most recent answer: 12/10/2012
Q:
i'm wondering if a trampoline has a spring constant? And if it has, how can i determine it?
- Simon (age 21)
Belgium
- Simon (age 21)
Belgium
A:
Sure, a trampoline, as all tightly stretched elastic membranes, has a spring constant. Like most spring systems, if you increase the tension of the membrane the frequency will increase. A tympanist in a symphonic orchestra will tune his drum by increasing or decreasing the tension. One way to determine the spring constant is to place a known weight in the middle and give it a whack. Measure the frequency, f, of vibrations and use the standard formula: k = (f/2π)2/m.
LeeH
You can also just measure the displacement d when you add the weight, and use k=mg/d. This has the advantage that you don't have to correct for the mass of the trampoline./mw
LeeH
You can also just measure the displacement d when you add the weight, and use k=mg/d. This has the advantage that you don't have to correct for the mass of the trampoline./mw
(published on 12/10/2012)