How Does Friction Affect Spring Oscillations?

[Tonyt88]

A spring with spring constant k stands vertically, and a mass m is placed on top of it. The mass is gradually lowered to its equilibrium position. With the spring held at this compression length, the system is rotated to a horizontal position. The left end of spring is attached to a wall, and the mass is placed on a table with coefficient of kinentic friction μ = 1/8. The mass is released.

(a) what is the initial compression of the spring?

(b) How much does the maximal stretch (or compression) of the spring decrease after each half-oscillation?

(c) How many times does the mass oscillate back and forth before coming to rest?

 

[Tonyt88]

Would the first part be F = ma = -kx
Thus: mg/k = x, or no?

 

[physics girl phd]

Looks like you have a good start (the system is in equilibrium with the force of the spring pushing up to balance the weight of the mass). Now what changes about the forces involved once you put the system on its side?

 

[acnewman]

less than helpful