Spring Constant of ping-pong ball

In summary, the conversation discusses the weight of a ping-pong ball, its placement on a vertical spring, and the determination of the spring constant. The formula for spring constant is F=kx, and using this formula, the spring constant is calculated to be 0.009. However, it is mentioned that this may not be the correct answer and conservation of energy should be considered. The conservation of energy states that the total energy before and after a process are equal. To apply this to the problem, one should write expressions for initial and final energy.
  • #1
brncsfns5621
22
0
A ping-pong ball weighs 2.5x10^-2N. The ball is placed inside a cup that sits on top of a vertical spring. If the spring is compressed .055m and released, the maximum height above the compressed position that the ball reaches is 2.84m. Neglect air resistance and determine the spring constant.

F= kx => k= F/x (k being the spring constant)

k = 2.5x10^-2 / (2.84 -.055)
= 2.5x10^-2 / 2.745
= .009

This is not the correct answer. Am I using the right formula for the Spring Constant?
 
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  • #2
One should probably consider conservation of energy here.
 
  • #3
The conservation of energy states that the total of all energies before the process is equal to the total energies after the process.

Forgive me, but I am not understanding how to apply that to this problem. :(
 
  • #4
Write expressions for initial and final energy.
 

Related to Spring Constant of ping-pong ball

What is the spring constant of a ping-pong ball?

The spring constant of a ping-pong ball is a measure of how much force is needed to compress or stretch the ball by a certain distance. It is typically represented by the letter "k" and has units of Newtons per meter (N/m).

How is the spring constant of a ping-pong ball determined?

The spring constant of a ping-pong ball can be determined by applying known forces to the ball and measuring the resulting displacement. This data can then be used to calculate the spring constant using the equation k = F/x, where F is the applied force and x is the resulting displacement.

Does the spring constant of a ping-pong ball change with temperature?

Yes, the spring constant of a ping-pong ball can change with temperature. This is because temperature affects the elasticity and stiffness of the ball's material, which in turn affects its spring constant. As the temperature increases, the spring constant generally decreases.

What factors can affect the spring constant of a ping-pong ball?

The spring constant of a ping-pong ball can be affected by factors such as temperature, humidity, and the materials used to make the ball. The size and shape of the ball can also impact its spring constant, as well as any external forces applied to the ball.

Why is the spring constant of a ping-pong ball important to know?

The spring constant of a ping-pong ball is important to know because it can help determine the ball's behavior in different situations. It can also be used to calculate the energy stored in the ball when it is compressed or stretched, as well as the force needed to cause a certain displacement in the ball.

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