What is k for the bottom spring?

[emily081715]

Homework Statement

A 5.0-kg block suspended from a spring scale is slowly lowered onto a vertical spring.
Part A: What does the scale read before the block touches the vertical spring?
(answer =49.1N)
Part B: If the scale reads 32 N when the bottom spring is compressed 30 mm, what is k for the bottom spring?

Homework Equations

F=kx

The Attempt at a Solution

K=32/0.03= 1066.7N/m

 

[BvU]

So would 32 N be the force the block exerts on the bottom spring ?

 

[emily081715]

So would 32 N be the force the block exerts on the bottom spring ?

thats what i interpret from the question, is that not correct?

 

[BvU]

If the scale reads 32 N, and $g$ times the mass is 49.1 N ...
Draw a diagram of the forces on the block.

 

[emily081715]

If the scale reads 32 N, and $g$ times the mass is 49.1 N ...
Draw a diagram of the forces on the block.

Both forces are acting down so would it be (32+49.)1/0.03=2703

 

[BvU]

The scale is pulling the block up
The bottom spring is pushing the block up
The Earth is pulling the block down
F_net = ma and the block is not accelerating

 

[emily081715]

The scale is pulling the block up
The bottom spring is pushing the block up
The Earth is pulling the block down
F_net = ma and the block is not accelerating

Would it still not be what I did earlier

 

[BvU]

No.

 

[emily081715]

No.

why? what is the mistake, should the forces be subtracted

 

[BvU]

Draw the forces the scale and the spring exert. Which way do they point ?