Solve Compression Distance for Mass Spring Train Collision

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on calculating the compression distance of a buffer stop weighing 1.5 tons when a train collides with it. It highlights the importance of applying conservation laws, specifically momentum and energy conservation, in solving the problem. The presence of mass in the spring is acknowledged as a factor that needs to be included in the equations. Participants emphasize that since no non-conservative forces are acting, both momentum and energy will remain conserved during the collision. Understanding these principles is crucial for accurately determining the compression distance.
katysmith
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i have a question in which a train collides with a buffer stop of mass 1.5 tons that asks how far the buffer stop is compressed. this is similar to a block and spring question, except the spring has mass. how is this included in the equation to solve for compression distance?
 
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Well, what do your conservation laws tell you? You know that momentum is conserved, and since there are no non-conservative forces at work, then energy will also be conserved.
 

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