Difficulty in deciding when to apply work energy theorem

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on 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 equation $0.5*k*x^2=0.5*mv^2$, leading to an incorrect result of $v = \sqrt{km}(gsin\theta+\mu gcos\theta)$. The correct velocity is identified as $v = \sqrt{(3m)/k}(gsin\theta+\mu gcos\theta)$. The discrepancy arises from not accounting for all forces acting on block A, specifically the spring force and friction.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the work-energy theorem in classical mechanics.
  • Knowledge of spring mechanics, including Hooke's Law and spring constant (k).
  • Familiarity with forces on inclined planes, including gravitational and frictional forces.
  • Ability to manipulate and solve equations involving kinetic and potential energy.
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the derivation of the work-energy theorem in the context of multiple forces.
  • Study the effects of friction on inclined planes and how it interacts with spring forces.
  • Learn about the dynamics of connected systems, particularly in relation to springs and inclined surfaces.
  • Explore advanced applications of the work-energy theorem in complex mechanical systems.
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics, as well as anyone involved in solving problems related to forces and energy in connected systems.

physicsissohard
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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
 
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The NET work is the one equal to the change in kinetic energy. This is what the work energy theorem "says".
 
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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?
 
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