Simple harmonic motion and amplitude

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a block-spring system where a bullet is fired into a suspended block, leading to a discussion on simple harmonic motion and energy conservation. Participants are exploring the relationship between kinetic energy and potential energy in the context of oscillations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants suggest using conservation of momentum to determine the initial velocity of the combined bullet and block after the collision. There are inquiries about how to relate kinetic energy before and after the collision to the mechanical energy of the system.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing guidance on the use of conservation laws. There is an ongoing exploration of how to approach the second part of the problem regarding the fraction of kinetic energy that becomes mechanical energy.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about the initial steps and the relationship between different forms of energy in the system. There is a focus on understanding the implications of the collision and subsequent motion.

Dotty21690
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Homework Statement



A 2.10-kg block is suspended from a spring with a spring constant of 280.0 N/m. A 0.070-kg bullet is fired into the block from directly below with a speed of 220.0 m/s and is embedded in the block. Find the amplitude of the subsequent motion.

-What fraction of the original kinetic energy of the bullet appears as mechanical energy in the system of block-spring-bullet?

Homework Equations



we are learning about the oscillations and energy. For this question I'm thinking I would need to use E= Kinetic energy + potential energy... (1/2)KA2=(1/2)mv2 + (1/2)Kx2
but I don't know what to do to get started, I am soo lost!

The Attempt at a Solution

 
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Start by finding the speed of the "bullet + block" immediately after the bullet embeds itself in the block. What's conserved during that 'collision'?
 
I suggest using conservation of momentum on the collision between the bullet and block to find the initial velocity upwards of the block.
 
thanks! but then how would I find part b? would I find the kinetic energy of the bullet and the mechanical energy of the system(in which I would plug back in my value for the amplitude?)
 
Dotty21690 said:
thanks! but then how would I find part b? would I find the kinetic energy of the bullet and the mechanical energy of the system(in which I would plug back in my value for the amplitude?)
Compare the KE before and after the collision.
 

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