Physics: Springs and Blocks - Mu(k), Compression, Ramp Height, Speed

In summary, the block has an x component velocity of vx at the top of the ramp. The acceleration due to friction will be -μmg from there on, so you can use the constant acceleration formulae in one dimension. However, it's unclear whether you're supposed to account for the jump that the block makes before it starts sliding on the surface.
  • #1
Cyto
18
0
http://www.myimgs.com/data/Cyto/Physics.jpg

The ramp and the ledge which the box sits on is has a Mu(k) of 0... the spring compression of the block when released from rest is 98cm... i found the height of the ramp being 29m, and the speed at the top of the ramp being 11.8.. i just need help finding the length of the last part before the block stops moving... the above diagram gives the rest of the info needed
 
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  • #2
Do you know about work and energy calculations?

Otherwise, you can use kinematics to do this problem since the acceleration caused by friction is constant.

P.S. This is a poor problem because the block will jump at the end of the ramp, and then bounce on the 'flat', and it's unclear whether or how you're supposed to account for it unless the block is affected by some sort of frictionless constraint.
 
  • #3
Ya, i understand energy and work calculations, but just don't get this problem and there is supposed to be no friction on the ramp, only on the top
 
  • #4
Ok. Consider this:
The block has an x component velocity of vx at the top of the ramp. The acceleration due to friction will be -μmg from there on, so you can use the constant acceleration formulae in one dimension.

A major problem for me is that it's unclear whether you're supposed to account for the jump that the block makes before it starts sliding on the surface. (If you're feeling truly insane, you could deal with the bouncing and spinnning that would occur in that scenario as well.)
 
  • #5
I do think I am insane, yes, but would not like to use your crazy methods. Is there a way to use kinetic/potential energy and W=Fad to find the distance.
 

1. What is the relationship between the coefficient of kinetic friction and the speed of an object sliding on a ramp?

The coefficient of kinetic friction (mu(k)) is a measure of the amount of friction between two surfaces in contact when one is in motion. In the case of an object sliding on a ramp, as the value of mu(k) increases, the speed of the object decreases. This is because a higher mu(k) value indicates a greater resistance to motion, resulting in a slower speed.

2. How does the compression of a spring affect its potential energy?

The potential energy stored in a spring is directly proportional to its compression. This means that the more a spring is compressed, the more potential energy it has. This is due to the elastic potential energy stored in the spring as it is deformed from its original shape.

3. What is the relationship between the height of a ramp and the speed of an object sliding down it?

According to the law of conservation of energy, the potential energy an object has at the top of a ramp is converted into kinetic energy as it slides down. This means that as the height of the ramp increases, so does the potential energy of the object, resulting in a higher speed as it reaches the bottom of the ramp.

4. How does the coefficient of kinetic friction affect the distance an object travels on a ramp?

The coefficient of kinetic friction determines the amount of energy lost due to friction as an object slides down a ramp. As this value increases, more energy is lost and therefore the distance the object travels decreases. This is because the object has less kinetic energy to propel it forward.

5. Can a spring with a higher spring constant store more potential energy than a spring with a lower spring constant?

Yes, a spring with a higher spring constant can store more potential energy than a spring with a lower spring constant. This is because a higher spring constant indicates a stiffer spring, which can be compressed or stretched more easily, resulting in a larger potential energy stored. This is also known as the spring's stiffness or elastic modulus.

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