Difficulty in deciding when to apply work energy theorem

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around the application of the work-energy theorem in a physics problem involving two blocks connected by a spring on an inclined plane. The user initially calculates the velocity of block B using the spring force and the work-energy theorem, resulting in an incorrect formula. The correct velocity is identified as being different, leading to confusion about the application of the theorem. Participants question whether the spring is the only force acting on block A, suggesting a potential oversight in the analysis. Clarification on the forces involved and their contributions to the work-energy calculations is needed to resolve the discrepancy.
physicsissohard
Messages
19
Reaction score
1
Homework Statement
Two blocks A and B of the same mass connected with a spring are placed on a rough inclined plane, which makes an angle $\theta$ with horizontal. What minimum velocity should be given to A up the incline so that B just moves
Relevant Equations
its
This is how I tried to do it. The force required to move B up the incline is $kx$ where x is elongation and k is spring constant. we know that spring force is greater than $mg(sin\theta+\mu cos\theta)$. And we can use work-energy theorem to figure out velocity.
$0.5*k*x^2=0.5*mv^2$ where $0.5*k*x^2$ is work done by spring force. and when you count all the chickens $v$ turns out to be $\sqrt{km}(gsin\theta+\mu gcos\theta)$. Which apparently is the wrong answer. And the correct answer apparently is $$\sqrt{(3m)/k}(gsin\theta+\mu gcos\theta)$$. I have no idea what I did wrong. Can somebody help? is there something wrong with the WOrk energy theorem, or what?
[![enter image description here][1]][1] [1]: https://i.stack.imgur.com/81yAK.png
 
Physics news on Phys.org
The NET work is the one equal to the change in kinetic energy. This is what the work energy theorem "says".
 
physicsissohard said:
Homework Statement: Two blocks A and B of the same mass connected with a spring are placed on a rough inclined plane, which makes an angle $\theta$ with horizontal. What minimum velocity should be given to A up the incline so that B just moves
Relevant Equations: its

This is how I tried to do it. The force required to move B up the incline is $kx$ where x is elongation and k is spring constant. we know that spring force is greater than $mg(sin\theta+\mu cos\theta)$. And we can use work-energy theorem to figure out velocity.
$0.5*k*x^2=0.5*mv^2$ where $0.5*k*x^2$ is work done by spring force. and when you count all the chickens $v$ turns out to be $\sqrt{km}(gsin\theta+\mu gcos\theta)$. Which apparently is the wrong answer. And the correct answer apparently is $$\sqrt{(3m)/k}(gsin\theta+\mu gcos\theta)$$. I have no idea what I did wrong. Can somebody help? is there something wrong with the WOrk energy theorem, or what?
[![enter image description here][1]][1] [1]: https://i.stack.imgur.com/81yAK.png
You need two hash signs for your inline Latex.

Is the spring the only force on block A?
 
Thread 'Collision of a bullet on a rod-string system: query'
In this question, I have a question. I am NOT trying to solve it, but it is just a conceptual question. Consider the point on the rod, which connects the string and the rod. My question: just before and after the collision, is ANGULAR momentum CONSERVED about this point? Lets call the point which connects the string and rod as P. Why am I asking this? : it is clear from the scenario that the point of concern, which connects the string and the rod, moves in a circular path due to the string...
Back
Top