Max Spring Compression Calculation

[jordanilyily]

Homework Statement

A 500g block is dropped from a height of 60cm above the top of a vertical spring whose force constant k = 120 N/m. Find the max. compression of the spring.

Homework Equations

Fsp = -kx

The Attempt at a Solution

m = 500, height above horizontal = 60cm, k = 120 N/m

I know the force on the block is mg however I'm at a loss as to how to get the acceleration (if that's needed) and how to plug this in.. I know what plugs into kx it would be (120)(0.60) = - (opposing force) 72 and mg on the block is 4900..perhaps I'm calculating it all wrong?

 

[gneill]

It might be simpler to approach this problem from a conservation of energy point of view.

 

[ashishsinghal]

use conservation of energy.