Conservation of momentum ; spring ; friction

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a physics problem involving the conservation of momentum, spring compression, and friction. The user initially struggled to find the maximum compression of a spring due to the lack of a given spring constant. Key insights revealed that while momentum and energy are generally conserved, energy is lost to friction in this scenario. The solution involves calculating the maximum compression using the formula: maximum compression = (1/2 * energy lost to friction) / frictional force, leading to the correct answer.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of conservation of momentum and energy principles
  • Knowledge of frictional forces and their impact on mechanical systems
  • Familiarity with spring mechanics and Hooke's Law
  • Ability to set up and solve equations related to energy and work
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of Hooke's Law and spring constants
  • Learn about energy loss due to friction in mechanical systems
  • Explore advanced topics in conservation laws in physics
  • Practice solving problems involving energy conservation and friction
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics, as well as educators seeking to enhance their understanding of energy conservation and friction in spring systems.

jumpman11372
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Homework Statement


http://img296.imageshack.us/img296/2281/springblockconsst5.th.jpg

I need help with part 2 of the problem, which asks to find the maximum compression of the spring. I have already found the work done by friction in part 1.


Homework Equations



I know momentum is conserved (duh) and so is energy, although some of both are lost to friction. I really do not know how to get started with this.


The Attempt at a Solution



I attempted setting some equations equal to each other, yet none seem to make sense. I feel helpless without the spring constant. K is not given.

I attempted creating a total conservation formula, yet to no avail. I am clueless how to incorporate friction, energy, and/or momentum together to find [tex]\Delta[/tex]x - compression

HELP PLEASE :cry:
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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Well neither momentum nor energy is considered conserved in this problem, because the system of block and spring lose energy to heat the universe outside the system.

If you have determined the energy lost to friction in part 1, you know this is equal to the frictional force times the distance applied. so the maximum compression is 1/2 the energy lost divided by the frictional force.
 
oh god! thank you so very much

didn't know why i didn't think of that :] I got the answer right!
 

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