How Does Changing Mass and Speed Affect Spring Compression?

Thread starter bcalkins
Start date Sep 20, 2012
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Compression Spring

AI Thread Summary

The discussion centers on the effects of changing mass and speed on spring compression during a collision. When a block of mass m and speed v compresses a spring by a distance deltaX, halving the mass and doubling the speed alters the energy dynamics. Applying conservation of energy principles can help determine the new compression distance. The kinetic energy of the block before the collision can be equated to the potential energy stored in the spring at maximum compression. Understanding these relationships is crucial for solving the problem effectively.

Sep 20, 2012

bcalkins

Question: A block of mass m and speed v collides with a spring, compressing it a distance deltaX. What is the compression of the spring if the mass of the block is halved and its speed is doubled?

I have no idea how to do this problem. If anyone can explain this to me it would be GREATLY appreciated. Thank you!

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Sep 20, 2012

Villyer

Have you attempted to use conservation of energy principles?

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