Conservation of energy between the mass and the spring

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SUMMARY

The discussion revolves around a physics problem involving a 1500g mass sliding down a frictionless incline at a 21-degree angle, compressing a spring with a force constant of 15N/cm. The key equation used is 1/2 kx^2 = mgh, where h is defined as sin(21) multiplied by the sum of the initial separation L and the spring's unstressed length of 0.6m. The user initially struggled with the calculations but ultimately resolved the issue independently. The correct approach involves converting all units and accurately applying the physics equations.

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  • Knowledge of trigonometric functions, specifically sine
  • Ability to perform unit conversions in physics problems
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Homework Statement



A 1500g mass starts from rest and slides a distance L down a frictionless 21 degrees incline, where it contacts an unstressed 60cm long spring of negligible mass. The mass slides an additional 10cm as it is brought momentarily to rest by compressing the spring of force constant 15N/cm. Find the initial separation L between the mass and the spring.

Homework Equations



1/2 kx^2 = mgh, where h = sin21 (L+0.6)

The Attempt at a Solution



I first converted all the dimensions: 1500g to 1.5kg, 60 and 10cm to 0.6m and .1m respectively, and 15N/cm to 1500N/m. I then plug in my answer to solve for h. After that, I divide h by sin21 and finally subtract 0.6 from it. I thought I did the question correctly, but I keep getting it wrong. Can someone please point out my mistake?

Thank you so much!
 
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nvm, I got it!
 

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