Stretch. Release. Repeat.
Spring oscillator
Explore how mass and stiffness set the rhythm of a spring, with a live energy exchange.
Spring oscillatorTRY IT YOURSELF
Period1.405 s
Displacement-0.5 m
Velocity-0 m/s
Total energy2.5 J
Teal + amber · follow the changing valuesIdealized physics model
What if you changed…
Try a starting point
At which point is the object fastest? Watch the energy bars.
See the calculation
F = −kx · T = 2π√(m/k)
- Angular frequency = √(k/m) = 4.47 rad/s. Period = 2π/ω = 1.4 s.
- Spring energy = ½kx² = 2.5 J. Kinetic energy = ½mv² = 0 J.
- Their sum remains ½kA² = 2.5 J.
What this model assumes
Horizontal ideal Hooke’s-law spring, no friction or damping. Displacement is measured from equilibrium.
Keep an eye on this
The minus sign in F = −kx describes direction; spring stiffness itself is positive.
Understand the physics ↗A little question. A clearer picture.
Spring oscillator: common questions
Wondering about the why? Start here.
Does a larger amplitude change the period?
Not for an ideal linear spring. It increases maximum speed and stored energy, while the period stays the same.
How does doubling the mass affect the period?
The period is multiplied by √2. To double the period, multiply mass by four while keeping stiffness constant.