My question is, how do you know when to use cos or sin?? Please be as specific as possible, thank you!   "An object is attached to a coiled spring. The object begins at its rest position at t=0 seconds. It is then propelled downard. Write an equation for the distance of the object from its rest position after t seconds, if the amplitude

Physics for Scientists and Engineers: Foundations and Connections
1st Edition
ISBN:9781133939146
Author:Katz, Debora M.
Publisher:Katz, Debora M.
Chapter16: Oscillations
Section: Chapter Questions
Problem 55PQ
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Below I have 2 very similar equations that both use cos and sin within their answers.

My question is, how do you know when to use cos or sin?? Please be as specific as possible, thank you!

 

"An object is attached to a coiled spring. The object begins at its rest position at t=0 seconds. It is then propelled downard. Write an equation for the distance of the object from its rest position after t seconds, if the amplitude is 5 inches and the period is 4.5"

d= -5sin(4pi t /9)

"An object is attached to a coiled spring. The object begins at its rest position at t=0 seconds. It is then propelled downard. Write an equation for the distance of the object from its rest position after t seconds, if the amplitude is 9 inches and the period is 4.5"

d= -9cos(4pi t/9)

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