Is this a trick question? more springs

  • Thread starter Thread starter flyingpig
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Springs
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion revolves around a physics problem involving a block of mass m, a spring with spring constant k, and an incline at an angle θ. The block is initially at rest, compressed against the spring, and gains velocity upon release. The key equation derived is \(\frac{1}{2}kx_0^2 = mgh\), which relates the potential energy stored in the spring to the gravitational potential energy at the maximum height. The angle θ is deemed unnecessary for calculating vertical height gain, but may be relevant for determining distance along the slope.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of potential energy and kinetic energy concepts
  • Familiarity with Hooke's Law and spring constants
  • Basic knowledge of trigonometry, specifically sine and cosine functions
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic equations for solving physics problems
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of energy conservation in mechanical systems
  • Learn about the applications of Hooke's Law in real-world scenarios
  • Explore the relationship between incline angles and height in physics problems
  • Investigate the effects of friction on energy conservation in similar problems
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and energy conservation, as well as educators looking for examples of spring dynamics and incline problems.

flyingpig
Messages
2,574
Reaction score
1

Homework Statement



A block with mass m is held against a compressed spring and then the spring is allowed to uncompress giving the block a velocity. The block slides to the right and then up an incline. Find the maximum height that the block reaches if the incline is [tex]\theta[/tex] degrees. All surfaces are frictionless, the spring constant is k and the initial spring compression is [tex]x_0[/tex].


The Attempt at a Solution



It says it gives the block a certain velocity, but that is after it releases right? So initally it still at rest. Also is the angle really necessary?

So really is it just

[tex]\frac{1}{2}kx_0 ^2 = mgh[/tex]
 
Physics news on Phys.org
flyingpig said:

Homework Statement



A block with mass m is held against a compressed spring and then the spring is allowed to uncompress giving the block a velocity. The block slides to the right and then up an incline. Find the maximum height that the block reaches if the incline is [tex]\theta[/tex] degrees. All surfaces are frictionless, the spring constant is k and the initial spring compression is [tex]x_0[/tex].


The Attempt at a Solution



It says it gives the block a certain velocity, but that is after it releases right? So initally it still at rest. Also is the angle really necessary?

So really is it just

[tex]\frac{1}{2}kx_0 ^2 = mgh[/tex]

You are right about the velocity.
With regard to height, I would agree you don't need the angle if you are considering vertical height gain, which makes me wonder if they are expecting an answer like x metres up the slope, rather than a vertical height gain??
 

Similar threads

Replies
17
Views
2K
Replies
8
Views
6K
Replies
30
Views
2K
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
4K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
Replies
15
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
4K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
Replies
1
Views
4K