Why is this wrong, Spring Problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the calculation of the speed of a 2.00 kg block attached to a spring with a force constant of 590 N/m as it passes through equilibrium after being pulled 6.00 cm from its rest position. The initial calculation incorrectly applied gravitational potential energy instead of elastic potential energy. The correct formula for elastic potential energy is E = 1/2 k Δl², leading to the accurate speed of the block at equilibrium being calculated as 1.0844 m/s.

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A 2.00 kg block is attached to a spring of force constant 590 N/m as in Figure 7.10. The block is pulled 6.00 cm to the right of equilibrium and released from rest.

(a) Find the speed of the block as it passes through equilibrium if the horizontal surface is frictionless.

We can use potential energy here...MGH=1/2MV^2
2GH=V^2
2(9.8)(.06)=V^2
V=1.0844 m/s

Why is this off?
 
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because it isn't gravitational potential energy... it's elastic potential energy.
 
The elastic potential energy is [tex]E=\frac{1}{2}k\Delta l^2[/tex][/color]
 

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