Calculating Work and Energy in a Spring-Block System

In summary, a block with mass 4.00 kg attached to a spring with spring constant 500 N/m slides on a horizontal table with friction. When the spring is compressed by 3.00 cm, the block moves right at 0.600 m/s. When the spring is completely relaxed, the block moves at 0.550 m/s. The net work done on the block is the change in potential energy of the spring. The work done by the spring can be calculated using the equation PE = \frac{1}{2}kx^2, where x is the displacement from the relaxed position. The work done by friction and the coefficient of kinetic friction can be found by using the total work and the work done
  • #1
gpber94
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Homework Statement


A block with mass m = 4.00 kg is attached to a spring with spring constant k = 500 N/m, and it slides on a horizontal table that is not frictionless. At a time when the spring is compressed by 3.00 cm, the block is observed to be moving toward the right (decompressing the spring) at 0.600 m/s. When the block reaches the point where the spring is completely relaxed, the block is measured to be moving at 0.550 m/s. (a) What is the net work done on the block during the time interval? (b) What is the work done by the spring? (c) What is the work done by friction? (d) What is the coefficient of kinetic friction between the block and the table?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


I honestly am lost, i know how to do a, but not anything after
 
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  • #2
The net work done by the spring is given by the change in the spring's potential energy between two positions (the compressed one and the relaxed one), spring potential is
[tex] PE = \frac{1}{2}kx^2 [/tex]
Where x is the displacement from the relaxed position.
Since you know the total work and the part of the work done by the spring parts (c) and (d) follow :)
 

FAQ: Calculating Work and Energy in a Spring-Block System

What is "Spring with Work and Energy"?

"Spring with Work and Energy" refers to the study of the relationship between the work done on a spring and the energy stored within it. This concept is commonly used in physics and engineering to understand the behavior of springs in various systems.

How does a spring store energy?

A spring stores energy by deforming or stretching when a force is applied to it. This deformation creates potential energy within the spring, which can be released when the force is removed, causing the spring to return to its original shape and release the stored energy.

What is Hooke's Law and how does it relate to springs?

Hooke's Law states that the force applied to a spring is directly proportional to the displacement or change in length of the spring. This means that as a spring is stretched or compressed, the force applied to it increases or decreases accordingly. Hooke's Law is often used to calculate the force needed to stretch or compress a spring by a certain distance.

How is work calculated in a spring system?

The work done in a spring system is calculated by multiplying the force applied to the spring by the distance that the spring is stretched or compressed. This can be represented by the equation W = Fd, where W is work, F is force, and d is distance. In a spring system, this calculation can help determine the amount of energy stored within the spring.

What are some real-life applications of "Spring with Work and Energy"?

"Spring with Work and Energy" has numerous real-life applications, such as in car suspensions, pogo sticks, and trampolines. It is also used in various types of machinery and equipment, such as shock absorbers and door closers. Understanding the concepts of work and energy in relation to springs is crucial in designing and optimizing these systems for efficient and safe use.

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