Mass-spring system on an incline

In summary, the problem involves a spring mounted at a 38 degree angle on a frictionless incline, with a compressed length of 15 cm and a mass of 5.4 kg. The spring constant is 565 N/m. Using the equations PE=1/2kx^2 and KE=1/2mv^2, the initial velocity of the mass leaving the spring can be calculated. The incline formula for acceleration is then used to calculate the maximum distance the mass will rise up the incline.
  • #1
easchwen
7
0

Homework Statement


A spring is mounted at an angle of = 38 on a frictionless incline as illustrated in the figure below. The spring is compressed to 15 cm where it is allowed to propel a mass of 5.4 kg up the incline. If the spring constant is 565 N/m, how fast is the mass moving when leaves the spring? To what maximum distance from the starting point will the mass rise up the incline?


Homework Equations


PE=1/2kx^2 and KE=1/2mv^2



The Attempt at a Solution


I honestly don't know. I tried using PE=KE with the formulas above, and then tried adding in the cos(38) to the KE side, but I could not get the correct answer. Help?
 
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  • #2
easchwen said:

Homework Statement


A spring is mounted at an angle of = 38 on a frictionless incline as illustrated in the figure below. The spring is compressed to 15 cm where it is allowed to propel a mass of 5.4 kg up the incline. If the spring constant is 565 N/m, how fast is the mass moving when leaves the spring? To what maximum distance from the starting point will the mass rise up the incline?


Homework Equations


PE=1/2kx^2 and KE=1/2mv^2



The Attempt at a Solution


I honestly don't know. I tried using PE=KE with the formulas above, and then tried adding in the cos(38) to the KE side, but I could not get the correct answer. Help?


Hi, I am no expert ,but i think you solve for v like you did with PE=KE, and that equla that initial velocity of the mass leaving the spring. After you get that, you use the incline formula for acceleration: ma = -mgsin38, so, a = -gsin38. Then The object reaches a max height so V2 = 0: V2^2 = V1^2 + 2ax, and solve for x!

Hope this helps:)
 

1. What is a mass-spring system on an incline?

A mass-spring system on an incline refers to a physical system in which a mass is attached to a spring and placed on an inclined surface. This system is often used to demonstrate principles of oscillation and energy conservation.

2. How does the angle of incline affect the mass-spring system?

The angle of incline affects the gravitational force acting on the mass, which in turn affects the equilibrium position and period of oscillation of the system. A steeper incline results in a larger gravitational force and a shorter period of oscillation.

3. What is the difference between a mass-spring system on an incline and a vertical mass-spring system?

The primary difference between these two systems is the presence of a gravitational force on the mass in an inclined system. This force affects the equilibrium position and period of oscillation, whereas a vertical system is only affected by the spring's restoring force.

4. How can the mass-spring system on an incline be used to calculate the spring constant?

The spring constant can be calculated by measuring the period of oscillation and the mass of the system, and then using the equation k = (4π²m)/(T²sinθ), where k is the spring constant, m is the mass, T is the period, and θ is the angle of incline.

5. Are there any real-world applications of a mass-spring system on an incline?

Yes, there are many real-world applications of this system. For example, it can be used to model the motion of a car's suspension system, the movement of a pendulum clock, or the behavior of a ski jump. It can also be used in engineering and physics experiments to study the principles of oscillation and energy conservation.

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