Inelastic Collisions: Solving for Spring Displacement

AI Thread Summary
In an inelastic collision scenario, block 1 (2.0 kg) collides with block 2 (1.4 kg) at rest, causing them to stick together. The conservation of momentum equation m1v1 = m2v2 is used to find the velocity of the combined blocks after the collision. The spring constant of 170 N/m is relevant for calculating the energy stored in the spring when compressed. The kinetic energy of the combined blocks is equated to the potential energy of the spring using the formula W = 1/2 kx^2. The final displacement of the spring is determined to be 0.33 m.
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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