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How does mass influence frequency?

What did he say?!

  • Mass and stiffness are factors that influence the natural frequency of a system

  • Mass is a measure of how heavy something is

Make your prediction:
Will the heavier system have a higher or lower frequency?

Lower frequency is the correct choice. As mass is increased the frequency decreases. Engineers might say there is an inverse relation.

Test your theory:

Compare the response of simple spring-mass systems with lighter and heavier mass with the same stiffness.

Click Here to Perform the Lighter Mass Experiment
LightWeightExample_IEfix.gif
Click Here to Perform the Heavier Mass Experiment
HeavyWeightExample_IEfix.gif

Show me!

Let me try!

See how mass influences the frequency of the glass.  Add a little bit of water to the glass.  Rub your finger around the rim.  Is the sound higher or lower in frequency?

Click "Next" to see more factors that influence frequency.

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The AIAA Rocky Mountain Section is the official AIAA chapter for Colorado, Montana, Wyoming, Alberta, Northwest Territories and Nunavut regions. We are one of the largest AIAA chapters in the world and we host regular events throughout the region for professionals, students and the public.

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