Two blocks with spring (no friction), force applied: displacement?

In summary, the 15N force applied to the 3kg block causes the spring to stretch by 0.107m from its equilibrium length of 0m, using the equation F=-kx. However, taking into account the gravitational forces of the blocks, the answer should be calculated by dividing 15N by the spring constant of 140N/m, resulting in a stretch of 0.107m.
  • #1
ddtozone
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Homework Statement



A 2kg block & 3kg block (left & right, respectively) are on a horizontal frictionless surface connected by a spring with K=140 N/m. A 15N force is applied to the 3kg block towards the right. How much does the spring stretch from its equilibrium length?


Homework Equations



F=-kx
others, maybe?

The Attempt at a Solution



I simply did force over constant, which is 15/140=0.107m. Is it this simple, or do you use the masses in some way?

Thank you!
 
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  • #2
the gravitational force of the 3kg is going to be more than the 2 kg gravitational force. So, when you pull with 15N to the right, it will not act like a fixed spring constant. So, what you should do is say 3-2kg=1kg so the resultant will include 9.81 Newtons in terms of the spring being moved, not the entire system which includes the spring and the two blocks. So, I think the answer is 15N-9.81N then you multiply by its constant.
 
  • #3
Oh ok, that makes more sense. But wouldn't you divide by the constant instead of multiplying by the constant, so the final answer would be N/(N/m)=m?
 

What is a two block system with springs and no friction?

A two block system with springs and no friction refers to a physical system in which two blocks are connected by a spring and there is no friction between the blocks and the surface they are resting on. This type of system is often used in physics experiments to study the behavior of springs and the effects of applied forces.

How does the displacement of the blocks affect the system?

The displacement of the blocks in a two block system with springs and no friction can affect the system in several ways. It can change the potential energy stored in the spring and the kinetic energy of the blocks, which can impact the overall motion and behavior of the system.

What is the role of the applied force in this system?

The applied force in a two block system with springs and no friction is responsible for causing displacement of the blocks and changing the potential energy stored in the spring. It is a crucial factor in determining the behavior of the system and can be controlled by the experimenter to study different scenarios.

How is the displacement of the blocks related to the spring constant?

The displacement of the blocks in a two block system with springs and no friction is directly related to the spring constant. This means that the displacement is directly proportional to the spring constant, and a change in one will result in a corresponding change in the other. This relationship is described by Hooke's Law.

What are some real-world applications of a two block system with springs and no friction?

A two block system with springs and no friction has many real-world applications, such as in shock absorbers, car suspensions, and even in the human body. The study of this system can help us understand the behavior of springs and how they can be used to absorb and dissipate energy in various scenarios.

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