Solving Spring, Block, Incline & Friction: Help Needed (Pictures Included)

In summary, the conversation is about a quiz that was given in class and no one got it right. The quiz is now being taken home and the speaker is feeling lost and unsure about how to approach it. They also mention different equations and attempts at solving a problem, but it is unclear what the problem is without more information.
  • #1
jjmont17
1
0
So we took a quiz in class, no one got it right so now its take home and I am lost.

Homework Statement


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Homework Equations


.5kxi -Fkd= .5MVf^2
h=dsin(tht)
umgh=fk
fk=ukN



The Attempt at a Solution


I really do not know where to start i tried
(1/2)(500n/m)(12.0)-(3.25)(500n/m)(d)=.5(2)(vf^2)
 
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  • #2


Unless the question was meant to say "the block-spring system is initially compressed by 12.0 cm" rather than "the block-spring system is initially compressed to 12.0 cm", this problem is unsolvable. Without knowing the spring's equilibrium length, it's impossible to find how high it travels; if the equilibrium length is 12.1 cm, that's obviously going to give a different result than if it's 54 cm.

If we assume the spring's compressed 12 cm from equilibrium, conservation of energy is the best way to solve this problem. The spring has no kinetic energy at the bottom and none at the top, but it turned elastic potential energy into gravitational potential energy and heat. Express this as an equation, then solve for the distance travelled.
 
  • #3

h=dsin(30.0)
umgh=(.25)(9.8)(d)(cos30.0)
fk=(.25)(9.8)(d)(sin30.0)

First of all, it's great that you are seeking help and trying to understand the material. When solving problems involving springs, blocks, inclines, and friction, it's important to first identify the relevant equations and principles that apply to the specific situation. In this case, the equations you listed seem to be related to energy, forces, and trigonometry.

To start, it's helpful to draw a diagram of the problem to visualize the situation and identify all the forces acting on the block. In this case, the forces would include the weight of the block, the force from the spring, and the force of friction. From the diagram, you can also determine the angle of the incline and the displacement of the block.

Next, you can apply the relevant equations to solve for the unknown variables. For example, you can use the equation for the work done by a spring (.5kx^2) to find the initial energy of the spring when it is compressed by a distance x. You can also use the equation for the work done by friction (fkdsinθ) to find the work done by friction as the block slides down the incline.

Finally, you can use the principle of conservation of energy to set the initial energy of the system (spring and block) equal to the final energy of the system (kinetic energy of the block and work done by friction). This will allow you to solve for the final velocity of the block.

Remember to pay attention to units and make sure they are consistent throughout your calculations. It may also be helpful to break the problem into smaller steps and check your work along the way. Don't get discouraged if you don't get the correct answer on your first try – problem solving takes practice and perseverance. Good luck!
 

1. What is the purpose of solving spring, block, incline, and friction problems?

The purpose of solving these types of problems is to understand and analyze the motion and forces involved in a system consisting of a block on a spring attached to an incline with friction. This type of problem is commonly found in physics courses and helps to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

2. What are the key equations used to solve these types of problems?

The key equations used to solve spring, block, incline, and friction problems are Newton's laws of motion, Hooke's law for springs, and the equations for calculating frictional forces. These equations help to determine the net force, acceleration, and displacement of the block on the incline.

3. How do you approach solving these types of problems?

The first step in solving these problems is to draw a free-body diagram, which illustrates all the forces acting on the block. Then, apply Newton's laws of motion to determine the net force and acceleration of the block. Next, use Hooke's law to calculate the force exerted by the spring. Finally, use the equations for friction to determine the frictional force and solve for the unknown variables.

4. What are some common mistakes to avoid when solving these types of problems?

Some common mistakes to avoid when solving these problems include not drawing an accurate free-body diagram, not considering all the forces acting on the block, and not using the correct equations. It is important to carefully identify and label all forces and use the appropriate equations to solve for the unknown variables.

5. How can I check if my solution to a spring, block, incline, and friction problem is correct?

To check the accuracy of your solution, you can use basic principles such as conservation of energy and momentum. Additionally, you can plug your calculated values back into the original equations to see if they satisfy the given conditions of the problem. It is also helpful to double-check your calculations and make sure all units are consistent.

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