Solved: Physics 20-1 Energy - Mass on a Spring

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a physics problem involving energy conservation related to a mass on a spring. The original poster presents a scenario where a mass is compressed on a spring with a known spring constant and maximum speed, seeking validation of their calculated mass.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply conservation of energy principles to find the mass, using the equations for potential and kinetic energy. Some participants question the assumptions made regarding the orientation of the spring, suggesting that it may affect the outcome.

Discussion Status

The conversation includes some validation of the original poster's approach, though there is uncertainty due to differing results from classmates. The mention of the spring's orientation introduces a potential variable that has not been resolved, indicating ongoing exploration of the problem.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted ambiguity regarding whether the spring is vertical or horizontal, which could influence the interpretation of the problem and the calculations involved.

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Homework Statement


This is a question from a test i had today..i want to know if I did it right or not.

A mass on a spring with spring constant 700 N/m is compressed 16 cm. If the maximum value of the speed is 12 m/s, what is the mass of the mass in kg?


Homework Equations



Ep = 1/2kx^2, Ek = 1/2mv^2


The Attempt at a Solution



so conservation of energy plays a role in this...

Vmax = 12 m/s
k = 700 N/m
x = 0.16 m
m = ?

Ep = Ek
1/2kx^2 = 1/2mv^2
m = (1/2kx^2) / (1/2v^2)
m = 0.12 kg.

im really doubting myself right now.
 
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Looks ok to me, but then again it is 1:30 A.M and I am borderline asleep...
 
lol. well thanks i guess. but a whole bunch of other people in my class got something else. it's weird.
 
Did the problem statement tell that whether the spring was vertical or horizonal?
if it's vertical ,the answer will be different.
 

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