Conservation of Energy in a Spring-Powered Glider on an Incline

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The discussion centers on calculating the distance a spring is compressed in a spring-powered glider scenario on a frictionless incline. Key equations related to energy conservation are provided, highlighting the relationship between spring potential energy and the glider's kinetic and potential energy. Participants express confusion about determining the spring's compression distance, questioning the adequacy of the given information. The conversation emphasizes understanding energy transformations as the glider moves along the incline. Ultimately, the resolution involves recognizing the energy contributions at the glider's highest point.
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Homework Statement



A 0.0900 kg glider is pushed up a 40.0° frictionless incline by a spring. The spring's constant is k = 640 N/m with negligible mass. The glider reaches a distance of 1.80 m along the inclined track after losing contact with the spring and then slides back down. What distance is the spring originally compressed?

Homework Equations



0.5kX2^2 - 0.5kX1^2 = 0.5mV2^2 - 0.5mV1^2

The Attempt at a Solution



I have absolutely no idea how we can possibly know the distance of the spring's comression. There does not seem to be enough information here.
 
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What can you say about the potential and kinetic energy of the glider when it reaches its highest point? Where did that energy come from?
 
tms said:
What can you say about the potential and kinetic energy of the glider when it reaches its highest point? Where did that energy come from?

Ahhhh, I see, thanks.
 

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