How Do You Calculate the Kinetic Energy of a Stretched Spring?

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To calculate the kinetic energy of a stretched spring, the relevant equation is KE = 0.5mv², as the spring constant k is not provided. The velocity of the spring decreases as it moves towards the center, and the velocity at a specific point can be expressed as v(x). To find the total kinetic energy, one must integrate the expression for kinetic energy over the length of the spring. The relationship between velocity and position indicates that v(x) is proportional to x, which is essential for deriving the equation. Understanding these principles is crucial for solving the problem effectively.
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Homework Statement


A spring of mass m is pulled away from the centre from its two ends with a velocity v at a particular instant.Find its kinetic energy.


Homework Equations


KE=.5kx2 is useless since k is not given but m is given
So i think i will have have to use .5mv2


The Attempt at a Solution


the velocity of the spring will gradually decrease and will become 0 at the centre.
if v(x) is the velocity at a particular distance from the centre then we can write
kinetic energy=1/2 m/l*dx*v(x)2(dx being a small distance x)
and then integrate to find KE.
i am unable to find v(x) as a function of x.
 
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atri.shivam said:
if v(x) is the velocity at a particular distance from the centre then we can write
kinetic energy=1/2 m/l*dx*v(x)2(dx being a small distance x)
and then integrate to find KE.
i am unable to find v(x) as a function of x.

Hi atri.shivam! Welcome to PF! :smile:

v(x), at any particular time, will be proportional to x … that's how springs work! :smile:

(assuming there's no wave in the spring! :rolleyes:)
 
but what will be the equation of v(x)
 
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