A block collides with a horizontal spring

AI Thread Summary
A 2.7 kg block compresses a horizontal spring with a spring constant of 356 N/m by 13.0 cm during a collision. The force exerted by the spring is calculated to be 46.28 N, while the frictional force acting on the block is 6.35 N due to a coefficient of kinetic friction of 0.24. The discussion highlights confusion regarding whether to account for the work done by friction when calculating the total work done by the spring. It is suggested to use energy equations, specifically the potential energy stored in the spring, to find the work done. The user is encouraged to clarify their calculations, particularly regarding the inclusion of negative signs for work done against friction.
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Homework Statement


A moving 2.7 kg block collides with a horizontal spring whose spring constant is 356 N/m.

The block compresses the spring a maximum distance of 13.0 cm from its rest postion. The coefficient of kinetic friction between the block and the horizontal surface is 0.24. What is the work done by the spring in bringing the block to rest?

Homework Equations


F=kx
w=F*S
f_k=mu_k * n

The Attempt at a Solution



F= 356 N * .13 m = 46.28 N, so the box exerts 46.28 N on the spring.

The force from friction is .24 * 2.7 kg * 9.80 m/s = 6.35.
From here I am unsure of where to go. I was under the impression that I'd simple multiply 46.28 N * .13 m, but that isn't giving me the correct answer. Do I need to also subtract the work done by friction? I had assumed that was taken into account by removing the 6.35. Input would be greatly appreciated.

Edit: Am I simply getting it wrong because I'm not putting in a negative sign?
 
Last edited:
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Use energies ...
See the work related equations:
W = Fd
W = change in U
Us = 0.5kx^2 ...
 
rootX said:
Use energies ...
See the work related equations:
W = Fd
W = change in U
Us = 0.5kx^2 ...

So, Us= 3.0 = W?
 
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