Mass of a Boxer: Find with k and x

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Homework Help Overview

The original poster presents a problem involving a spring with a known force constant and compression distance, seeking to determine the mass of a boxer standing on it. The context relates to mechanics, specifically the interaction between force, mass, and spring behavior.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the relationship between force, spring constant, and displacement, referencing the formula F = kx. The original poster contemplates using this relationship to find mass by substituting into the weight equation F = mg.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on the relevant formulas and expressed the importance of the original poster demonstrating their own understanding before receiving help. There is an ongoing dialogue about the appropriateness of the assistance given and the rules of engagement in the forum.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the expectation for the original poster to show their work before receiving help, as per forum guidelines. There is also mention of the gravitational constant being relevant to the problem.

sup90
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Springs and... mass??

A spring with a force constant of 2.1 x 10^4 N/m compresses 0.035m when stepped on by a boxer. The mass of the boxer is...?

k = 2.1 x 10^4 N/m
x = 0.035m

how would you be able to find the mass for this?
 
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Welcome to PF sup90.

You are expected to show your own efforts on a problem before anyone helps you. What have you tried? What are your thoughts on the problem? What formulas relate to the problem in question. What section of your textbook does the problem relate to? Answer these questions, and we'll be able to help you.

Also, please post all homework type problems in the homework help section of the site next time.
 
F=Kx
That is Force (in this case weight) = Force constant * change in length.
Hope this helps.
 
madmike159 said:
F=Kx
That is Force (in this case weight) = Force constant * change in length.
Hope this helps.

There is a reason we require students to show work before we help them Mike.

How does just giving him an answer without him doing ANY work, help him in the end?
 
sorry for the late reply, yes i go that far..

F = kx
plug F into F = mg; knowing that g = 9.8

and solve for m?

i'm i on the right track?
 
I just gave him what he needs to work it out, I don't see how else I could help. Giving him a like to something would just be a longer way of helping him.
 
yes sup, what you said is right. That is essentially how scales work.
 
thank you for your time and help guys =D
 
madmike159 said:
I just gave him what he needs to work it out, I don't see how else I could help. Giving him a like to something would just be a longer way of helping him.

Yes, you did indeed help him solve the problem, but I'm just pointing out, for next time, that the rules are that you shouldn't offer help until the original poster shows work. Those are the forum rules.
 

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