Calculating Maximum Compression Height of Spring: A Scientific Approach

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The discussion focuses on calculating the maximum compression height of a spring when a block is dropped onto it. The initial potential energy of the block is equated to the final potential energy of the spring and the block after compression. The formula derived involves using energy conservation principles, leading to the calculation of compression height. The user calculated the compression height to be 10.25 cm, but seeks confirmation of the accuracy of their approach. The thread emphasizes the importance of demonstrating work and understanding energy conservation in such problems.
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A 20-cm-tall spring with spring constant 5000 N/m is placed vertically on the ground. A 10.0 kg
block is held 17.0 cm above the spring. The block is dropped, hits the spring, and compresses
it. What is the height of the spring at the point of maximum compression?

Here is what i did, i am just unsure if what i did is correct.

PE=potential energy
PE of the block initially(PEbi) = PE of the spring final(PEsf) + PE of the block final(PEbf)
PEbi = PEsf + PEbf
mghi = .5kx^2 + mghf
x = sqrt[2(mghi-mghf)/k)
in this case hf is equal to x
plugging in the numbers i got x to equal 10.25cm
where x is the height of the compressed srping
 
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As per the forum rules, you need to show us your attempt.
For a start, try to form an equation using energy conservation.
 
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