Spring Constant and Compression Problem

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the compression of a spring in a dart gun, given its spring constant and the potential energy stored in it. The subject area relates to mechanics, specifically the behavior of springs and energy storage.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the use of the spring potential energy formula and question the calculations involved. There is an attempt to isolate the variable representing compression, with some participants expressing confusion about their results and the implications of certain values.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing feedback on each other's calculations and questioning assumptions made during the problem-solving process. Some guidance has been offered regarding the correct application of the potential energy formula.

Contextual Notes

There appears to be confusion regarding the values used in calculations, and some participants are questioning the validity of their assumptions about the spring's compression. The original poster's approach has led to uncertainty about the correct interpretation of the equations involved.

bbreezy
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Homework Statement



The potential energy stored in the compressed spring of a dart gun, with a spring constant of 62.50 N/m, is 0.540 J. Find by how much is the spring is compressed.

Homework Equations



I know that F=-k*change in x and also spring= 1/2kx^2

The Attempt at a Solution



Using the two formulas above, i tried 1/2(62.5)(x^2) which is .540? but I am getting the wrong answer.. I also tried x=0 and canceling it. I am not sure what I am doing wrong here.
 
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What number did you get using the 2nd equation (don't use the first)? Please show your math. And why would you try x = 0?
 
I got 9.1125... i did 1/2(62.5)(.540^2)
 
I know X is the "displacement" but I am drawing a blank as to what that number is
 
Are you saying you solved (1/2)(62.6)x2=0.540 for x, and got the wrong answer?
 
I can tell you that the spring is not compressed 9 meters unless you have one big dart gun hehe. Looks like you have your numbers mixed up. Potential energy of a spring is equal to 1/2k*x^2 so your equation should look like this

.540=1/2k*x^2, x is how much the spring is compressed.
 

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