Inelastic Collisions: Solving for Spring Displacement

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving for the spring displacement in an inelastic collision scenario involving two blocks and a spring. Block 1, with a mass of 2.0 kg, collides with block 2, which has a mass of 1.4 kg and is at rest on a frictionless surface. The spring constant is given as 170 N/m. The final displacement of the spring, after the collision, is calculated to be 0.33 m using the work-energy principle, specifically the equation W = 1/2 kx², where W is the kinetic energy of the combined blocks post-collision.

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  • Understanding of inelastic collisions and momentum conservation
  • Knowledge of kinetic energy calculations
  • Familiarity with spring mechanics and Hooke's Law
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic equations for physics problems
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  • Study the principles of momentum conservation in inelastic collisions
  • Learn about the work-energy theorem and its applications in mechanics
  • Explore Hooke's Law and its implications in spring systems
  • Practice solving problems involving energy transformations in mechanical systems
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and energy conservation, as well as educators looking for practical examples of inelastic collisions and spring dynamics.

patelkey
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Homework Statement



In the figure below, block 2 (mass 1.4 kg) is at rest on a frictionless surface and touching the end of an unstretched spring of spring constant 170 N/m. The other end of the spring is fixed to a wall. Block 1 (mass 2.0 kg), traveling at speed v1 = 4.0 m/s, collides with block 2, and the two blocks stick together. When the blocks momentarily stop, by what distance is the spring

Homework Equations



m1v1=m2v2

The Attempt at a Solution


I attempted the solution but I am confused about the 170N/m
How would I use that information and relate it to the equations of inelastic collision?
 
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Find the velocity of the combined blocks after collision. Then find the KE of the the combined blocks.
What is the expression for the energy stored in a compressed spring?
 
ohhh okk i got it
I had to use W=1/2kx^2
they gave k and i figured out W through the KE equation.
it was 0.33 m if you were curious.
 

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