How Far Will the Spring Compress When Dropping a 5.8 kg Block?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on calculating the compression of a vertical spring when a 5.8 kg block is dropped onto it. The initial approach used Hooke's Law, relating spring constant k to force and distance, but the calculation yielded an incorrect result. The user initially calculated the compression as 0.1148 meters but later indicated they resolved the issue independently. The conversation highlights the importance of correctly applying physics principles, particularly in dynamic scenarios. Accurate calculations are crucial for understanding spring mechanics in real-world applications.
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A vertical spring with k = 495 N/m is standing on the ground. You are holding a 5.8 kg block just above the spring, not quite touching it.

How far does the spring compress if you let go of the block suddenly?

i thought i could just use k = F/distance

so 495(D) = (5.8)(9.8)

D = .1148 but this is not correct. i take it i am doing something wrong with my acceleration but I'm not sure what. can anyone help me with this?
 
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nevermind i figured it out.
 
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