Calculating Work and Energy in a Spring-Block System

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The discussion centers on a spring-block system where a 4.00 kg block is attached to a spring with a constant of 500 N/m, moving on a frictional surface. Key calculations involve determining the net work done on the block, the work done by the spring, and the work done by friction, as well as finding the coefficient of kinetic friction. The potential energy of the spring is calculated using the formula PE = 1/2 kx^2, with x being the compression distance. The user expresses confusion about the calculations after determining the net work, indicating a need for clarity on the subsequent steps. Understanding the relationship between potential energy, kinetic energy, and work done by friction is crucial for solving the problem.
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Homework Statement


A block with mass m = 4.00 kg is attached to a spring with spring constant k = 500 N/m, and it slides on a horizontal table that is not frictionless. At a time when the spring is compressed by 3.00 cm, the block is observed to be moving toward the right (decompressing the spring) at 0.600 m/s. When the block reaches the point where the spring is completely relaxed, the block is measured to be moving at 0.550 m/s. (a) What is the net work done on the block during the time interval? (b) What is the work done by the spring? (c) What is the work done by friction? (d) What is the coefficient of kinetic friction between the block and the table?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


I honestly am lost, i know how to do a, but not anything after
 
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The net work done by the spring is given by the change in the spring's potential energy between two positions (the compressed one and the relaxed one), spring potential is
PE = \frac{1}{2}kx^2
Where x is the displacement from the relaxed position.
Since you know the total work and the part of the work done by the spring parts (c) and (d) follow :)
 

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