How Do You Solve Problems Involving a Spring's Force Constant?

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To solve problems involving a spring's force constant, it's essential to understand the energy transformations involved. Start by calculating the energy the spring provides to the block, as this is a key component of the problem. Reviewing course notes and researching concepts related to force, work, and potential energy can provide valuable insights. It's important to break the problem down into manageable parts and tackle them one at a time. Understanding the relationship between the spring's force constant and energy is crucial for finding the solution.
Miyla

Homework Statement



Screen Shot 2016-12-18 at 2.29.36 AM.png

Homework Equations



Screen Shot 2016-12-18 at 3.25.17 AM.png

These are the equations he provided.

The Attempt at a Solution


I actually have no idea how to do them. So any help would be much appreciated.
 
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What is the energy the spring gives the block? calculate that first
 
Welcome to PF;
A good start is to look though your course notes, or to google for information about force work and potential energy.
If you sincerely have absolutely no idea at all where to start - then you have more serious problems than this.

Start by describing the energy transformations at each part of the journey.
 
Take a shot, Miyla. Do one part at a time and we'll help. Start with A. I can't help but notice none of your equations say anything about the spring. What have you been taught about a spring?
 
The book claims the answer is that all the magnitudes are the same because "the gravitational force on the penguin is the same". I'm having trouble understanding this. I thought the buoyant force was equal to the weight of the fluid displaced. Weight depends on mass which depends on density. Therefore, due to the differing densities the buoyant force will be different in each case? Is this incorrect?

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