Determine the distance that the spring is compressed

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a 2 kilogram block dropped from a height of 0.45 meters onto an uncompressed spring with an elastic constant of 200 N/m. The discussion centers around determining the distance the spring is compressed, the maximum compression, and the amplitude of simple harmonic motion (SHM) related to the block-spring system.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss using conservation of energy principles to relate potential and kinetic energy, with questions about the maximum speed of the block and the velocity at maximum compression. There are also inquiries about the types of potential energy relevant to the problem.

Discussion Status

Some participants have confirmed the block's speed is zero at maximum compression, while others are exploring the conservation of energy equation. There is an acknowledgment of the need to consider gravitational potential energy in the analysis, indicating a productive direction in the discussion.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the complexities of energy conservation in a vertical system, with specific attention to gravitational effects and potential energy types. There is an indication of uncertainty regarding the correct application of energy principles in this context.

waterfaire
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A 2 kilogram block is dropped from a height of .45 meter above an uncompressed spring. The spring has an elastic constant of 200 Newtons per meter and negligible mass. The block strikes the end of the spring and sticks to it.

A) Determine the distance that the spring is compressed
B) Determine the maximum compression of the spring
C) Determine the amplitude of the SHM

Mass = 2kg
Height = .45m
k = 200N/m

for A...I think I have to use conservation of energy, but I don't know what to put for the maxmium speed of the block.
 
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When the spring is compressed completely, how fast is the block moving?
 
robb_ said:
When the spring is compressed completely, how fast is the block moving?

the speed would be 0, right? at max. compression
 
yes, that is right
 
so...do i use

Ui + Ki = Uf + Kf
.5mv^2=.5kx^2
mv^2=kx^2...

? if i do, what's the velocity?
 
What other types of potential energy do you know of?
 
That would be true for a horizontal situation, but you have to take gravity into account for this problem. Dont be intimidated by the quadratic
 

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