Acceleration as a function of distance to Velocity?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on a physics problem involving a block on an inclined surface attached to a spring. The initial acceleration of the block is calculated using the formula a = kΔx/m - gsinθ - μkgcosθ, where Δx represents the spring compression. The problem also requires demonstrating that acceleration becomes zero when the spring is compressed by l(sinθ + μkcosθ). The user expresses confusion about integrating the acceleration to find velocity, leading to a suggestion to apply energy conservation principles instead.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's second law and forces acting on inclined planes
  • Familiarity with spring mechanics and Hooke's Law
  • Knowledge of static and kinetic friction coefficients
  • Basic calculus, specifically integration techniques
NEXT STEPS
  • Study energy conservation principles in mechanical systems
  • Learn about integrating acceleration to find velocity in physics
  • Explore the effects of friction on motion in inclined planes
  • Review Hooke's Law and its applications in spring dynamics
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics, as well as educators looking for examples of inclined plane problems involving springs and friction.

Berdi
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Homework Statement



A block of mass m lies on a rough surface, inclined at an angle [tex]\theta[/tex] to the horizontal. It is attached to a spring of force constant k; the other end of the spring is fixed to point on the table below the block. The coefficient of static friction between the block and the surface of the table is [tex]\mu[/tex] s and the coefficient of kinetic friction is [tex]\mu[/tex]k< [tex]\mu[/tex]s
(the friction between the spring and the table is negligible).

There are a lots of parts to this question, but I'll post the relevant parts for the time being:

([tex]l[/tex] is [tex]mg/k[/tex])

i)Find the initial acceleration of the block;
ii)Show that the acceleration is zero when the spring is compressed by [tex]l(sin\theta +\mu_{k}cos\theta)[/tex]
iii) Find the speed v0 at this point

Is where I get stuck.


Homework Equations



I have found the inital acceleration to be given by [tex]a = k\Delta x/m -gsin\theta - \mu_{k}gcos\theta[/tex]

where [tex]\Delta x[/tex] is the compression of the spring.

And I believe this to be correct as part ii) works out.

The Attempt at a Solution



I understand that the velocity would be the integral of the acceleration, but I'm confused due to the acceleration equation I have doesn't seem to involve time, so I'm not sure how to begin integrating it.
 
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Rather than try to integrate the acceleration equation, use energy conservation.
 
Okay, I'll give that a try. Thanks!
 

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