Force transfer from compressed spring

In summary, we have a problem involving a metal spring, a weight of 50kg, and a tennis ball weighing 1kg. The spring is initially compressed to half its length, and when released, will push the tennis ball into the air. To find the distance the ball will travel and the time it will take, we can use the equations for Newton's acceleration and speed, as well as the concept of conservation of energy. Additionally, we should consider the force of gravity on the ball.
  • #1
Neil Burns
5
0

Homework Statement


I have a metal spring 50mm in diameter 152 mm long compressed to half its length ie 76mm by using a weight of 50kg. I have used a clip to hold it compressed. When that clip is broken the spring will expand back to its original length of 152mm. How can I work out how far it will push a tennis ball weighing 1kg into the air and how long will this take ?


Homework Equations


Newton Acceleration = force/mass
Speed = distance/time s=d/t
acceleration= increase in speed over time (speed end -speed beg) / (time end-time beg)

Please let me know what other equations I should use?


The Attempt at a Solution


The tennis ball will accelerate very fast to begin with at rate of 50kg - 1kg but slow as the force of gravity drags it back to the earth
 
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  • #2
Welcome to PF!

Hi Neil! Welcome to PF! :wink:

Use conservation of energy to find when the ball leaves the spring (that'll be when the acceleration = … ?)

Then use one of the standard constant acceleration equations. :smile:
 
  • #3
A tennis ball of mass 1 kg? What is inside of it?
 
  • #4
baked beans! :tongue2:
 
  • #5
.

As a scientist, it is important to have a clear understanding of the concept of force transfer from a compressed spring. In this scenario, the force exerted by the weight (50kg) on the compressed spring causes it to store potential energy. When the clip is released, the stored potential energy is converted into kinetic energy, causing the spring to expand back to its original length and push the tennis ball into the air.

To determine the distance the tennis ball will be pushed into the air, we can use the equation for potential energy: PE = 1/2kx^2, where k is the spring constant and x is the distance the spring is compressed. In this case, the spring constant can be calculated using Hooke's Law: F = kx, where F is the force exerted by the weight on the spring.

To calculate the time it will take for the tennis ball to reach its maximum height, we can use the equation for time: t = √(2h/g), where h is the maximum height reached by the tennis ball and g is the acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s^2).

Using these equations and the given values, we can determine the distance the tennis ball will be pushed into the air and the time it will take to reach its maximum height. It is also important to consider other factors such as air resistance and the elasticity of the spring, which may affect the accuracy of our calculations.

In addition to the equations mentioned, we can also use the equations for work (W = Fd) and power (P = W/t) to calculate the amount of work done by the spring and the power required to push the tennis ball into the air.

Overall, it is important to carefully consider all the relevant equations and factors when trying to determine the force transfer from a compressed spring and its effects on objects such as the tennis ball in this scenario.
 

1. How does a compressed spring transfer force?

A compressed spring transfers force through the deformation and restoration of its elastic potential energy. When the spring is compressed, it stores potential energy in the form of a stretched molecular structure. This potential energy is released when the spring is released, transferring force in the opposite direction.

2. What factors affect the force transferred by a compressed spring?

The force transferred by a compressed spring is affected by the spring constant, which is a measure of the stiffness of the spring, as well as the amount of compression and the distance over which the compression occurs. The material and shape of the spring can also impact the force transferred.

3. Can the force transferred by a compressed spring be increased?

Yes, the force transferred by a compressed spring can be increased by increasing the amount of compression or by using a spring with a higher spring constant. However, there is a limit to how much force can be transferred, as the spring will eventually reach its elastic limit and no longer be able to restore its original shape.

4. How is the force transferred by a compressed spring measured?

The force transferred by a compressed spring can be measured using a spring scale or a force gauge. These instruments measure the amount of force required to stretch or compress the spring, providing a measurement of the force being transferred.

5. What are some real-world applications of force transfer from compressed springs?

Compressed springs are commonly used in various mechanical devices, such as car suspension systems, shock absorbers, and toys. They are also used in industrial equipment, such as conveyor belts and door mechanisms, as well as in medical devices, such as insulin pumps and prosthetics.

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