Finding elastic constant given mass and elongation

AI Thread Summary
To find the elastic constant and elastic potential energy of a spring with a known mass and elongation, the relevant equations include Elastic PE = 1/2Kx^2 and F = kx. The gravitational force acting on the mass is calculated using F = mg, which helps to isolate the spring constant, K. By substituting the force into the spring equation, the spring constant can be determined. The discussion concludes with the realization that the force is simply the product of mass and gravitational acceleration, allowing for the completion of the calculations.
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Homework Statement


I'm doing a lab where a known mass is suspended by a spring. All that is known is the mass of the weight used and the length of the elongation of the spring, and I need to find the elastic potential energy of the spring and the spring constant, K.


Homework Equations


(formatted text links aren't clicking for me?)
Elastic PE = 1/2Kx^2--x normally applies to the elongation of the spring though it is extending in the y direction in this case

Gravitational PE = 9.81mh

GPE + EPE = Total PE/KE (energy is assumed to be conserved)


The Attempt at a Solution


The problem is I have two variables and no way I can see to substitute for one of them to simplify the equation, so I don't know how to isolate a spring constant or the elastic potential energy.
 
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You need the other spring formula, F = kx.
 
Ah, that should help. is that force found with Mass*g*x?
Thanks for the help thus far.
 
The F is mass*g.
Solve for k.
 
lol you're right-- after I thought about it, I realized it was just m*g. I'll be able to finish it up , and now I'm sure you want to get to some more questions so have a good night;)
 

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