Maximum Compression of buffers for a Train

AI Thread Summary
To determine the maximum compression of buffers for a train with a mass of 1.2 kg traveling at 0.45 m/s, the conservation of energy principle should be applied. The kinetic energy (EK) of the train can be calculated using the formula EK = 1/2 mv^2, which incorporates the velocity. The potential energy (EP) stored in the buffers can be expressed as EP = 1/2 kx^2, where k is the spring constant. By equating the initial kinetic energy to the potential energy at maximum compression, the relationship EK_initial + EP_initial = EK_final + EP_final can be used to solve for the maximum compression (x). This approach effectively combines both kinetic and potential energy to find the solution.
JamesC
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Homework Statement


I need to work out the maximum compression of buffers for a train with 1.2kg mass, traveling at 0.45m/s and the spring constant, k, is 4.8x10^3 Nm^-1


Homework Equations


I tried using 1/2kx^2 but I don't know if I am doing it right


The Attempt at a Solution


I couldn't attempt the question because I don't know how the velocity is put into the equation, can anyone help?
 
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use conservation of energy

you'll need the v to plug it in the formula for kinetic energy

marlon
 
But that's what I don't understand about the question, I worked out the kinetic energy, but where is it placed in the equation which I attempted with?
 
JamesC said:
But that's what I don't understand about the question, I worked out the kinetic energy, but where is it placed in the equation which I attempted with?

EK + EP = E_total

The trick is to apply the above equation onto two different situations :

EK_initial + EP_initial = EK_final + EP_final

marlon
 
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