Calculating Block Speed Before Compressing Spring

In summary, the speed of a block before compressing a spring can be calculated using the equation v = √(2gh), where v is the speed, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is the height of the block. The speed can be negative if the block is moving downward with a speed greater than zero. The mass of the block does not affect the speed, but external factors such as air resistance, friction, and initial position and velocity can alter the final speed. The stiffness of the spring does not affect the speed, as it is determined by the height and acceleration due to gravity.
  • #1
joshbrackeen
1
0
1. A 4020 gram block slides on a frictionless surface into a spring and compresses it 3.70 cm before the block briefly comes to rest. The spring constant is 2500 N/m. Calculate the speed of the block just before it compresses the spring.



2. KE=1/2mv^2 and U_s=1/2kx^2



3. KE = U_s
2010v^2=1.71
v=0.0292 m/s

My professor received a different speed in her answer so I was wondering if I did something wrong.
 
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  • #2
You've got to watch units and algebra. Convert grams to kg and cm to meters before solving, and try again. Your units must be consistent.
 

Related to Calculating Block Speed Before Compressing Spring

1. How do you calculate the speed of a block before compressing a spring?

To calculate the speed of a block before compressing a spring, you will need to use the equation v = √(2gh), where v is the speed, g is the acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s^2), and h is the height of the block above the ground. This equation assumes that the block is initially at rest and there is no air resistance.

2. Can the speed of a block before compressing a spring be negative?

Yes, the speed of a block before compressing a spring can be negative if the block is moving downward with a speed greater than zero. This can happen if the block was initially thrown downwards or if there is a downward force acting on the block.

3. How does the mass of the block affect the speed before compressing a spring?

The mass of the block does not affect the speed before compressing a spring, as long as there is no external force acting on the block. The equation v = √(2gh) only depends on the height and acceleration due to gravity, not the mass of the block.

4. Is the speed of the block before compressing a spring affected by the stiffness of the spring?

No, the speed of the block before compressing a spring is not affected by the stiffness of the spring. This is because the speed is determined by the height of the block and the acceleration due to gravity, not the properties of the spring.

5. Can any other factors affect the speed of the block before compressing a spring?

Yes, factors such as air resistance, friction, and external forces can affect the speed of the block before compressing a spring. These factors may change the acceleration of the block and alter the final speed. Additionally, the initial position and velocity of the block can also affect the final speed.

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