Simple spring problem (need someone's help)

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a spring system in the context of an elevator that descends at a constant speed. The original poster is exploring the dynamics of the spring when the elevator suddenly stops, questioning the role of mass in determining the spring's oscillation magnitude.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to relate kinetic energy and spring potential energy to analyze the system, questioning whether mass is necessary for their approach.

Discussion Status

Some participants affirm the original poster's approach while noting the importance of mass in solving the problem. Others express confusion regarding the lack of information provided in the question and suggest considering potential energy as well.

Contextual Notes

The original question lacks specific details about mass and other parameters, which may affect the analysis of the spring's behavior.

Kenny Lee
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An elevator descends at constant speed v.
There is a spring suspended from the elevator's ceiling, and a particle is hanging off it. It is at rest relative to the elevator.
Suddenly the elevator stops. At what magnitude does the spring oscillate?

IS it possible to obtain an answer to this question, without considering the mass?
Cause what I did was just equate 1/2 mv^2 with 1/2 kA^2, the total energy of a spring system. Is that valid? Please, any advice at all.

Thanks.
 
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It looks valid. You need the mass to solve this problem.
 
yea, you sure? was really confused cause question's got no info at all. Thanks.
 
Also, don't forget to take the potential energy into account.
 

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