Energy Conservation & Potential Energy Spring/Friction Problem

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a 0.80-kg block interacting with a spring and moving down a ramp with friction. The block is initially held by an external force and then projected with a given velocity after the force is removed. The discussion centers around energy conservation principles, specifically relating to kinetic and potential energy, as well as the effects of friction.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the application of energy conservation equations and the relationship between kinetic energy and potential energy in the context of the spring's force constant. There are attempts to manipulate equations to find the spring constant, but confusion arises due to the lack of distance measurements.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring various approaches to derive the spring constant. Some guidance has been offered regarding the relationships between variables, but there is no explicit consensus on the method to proceed due to uncertainties about the necessary distance values.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the absence of distance units, which complicates the calculations. The problem setup includes a rough section of track and a coefficient of kinetic friction, which are also points of consideration in the discussion.

Help1212
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Homework Statement



A 0.80-kg block is held in place against the spring by a 67-N horizontal external force. The external force is removed, and the block is projected with a velocity v1 = 1.2 m/s upon separation from the spring. The block descends a ramp and has a velocity v2 = 1.9 m/s at the bottom. The track is frictionless between points A and B. The block enters a rough section at B, extending to E. The coefficient of kinetic friction is 0.39. The velocity of the block is v3 = 1.4 m/s at C. The block moves on to D, where it stops. In Fig. 7.4, the force constant of the spring is..

7.4.jpg


Homework Equations



K1 +U1 +W other = K2+ U2.. ect .. U2=0.5kx^2 .. K1=(0.5)mv^2

The Attempt at a Solution



I've tries solving the problem with the equation above but I really just don't know where to start especially since there are no units of distance given.. Can someone lead me in the right direction please?
 
Last edited:
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Hi Help1212! :smile:

(try using the X2 and X2 icons just above the Reply box :wink:)

I assume you can find kx and kx2/2 ?

ok, then k = … ? :wink:
 
euhh... I'm still a little confused..how do i find k if I don't know x?
 
x is twice kx2/2 divided by kx :wink:
 
hmm. well when I move around the equation i get k=2[0.5(mv22)/x2

from the assumption that K1 + U1 = K2 + U2

Am i going in the right direction??
 
can you find kx and kx2/2 ?

if so, what are they?
 

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