How to Determine Velocity and Maximum Compression of a Pendulum-Spring System

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In summary, the conversation is about a question regarding a pendulum and a spring with a given mass and spring constant. The first question asks for the velocity of the ball at the bottom of the swing, which is determined using the equations for gravitational potential energy and kinetic energy. The second question asks for the maximum compression of the spring, which is calculated using the equation for elastic potential energy. The final answers for both questions are 1.0 m/s and 0.036 m, respectively.
  • #1
silentcoder
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Homework Statement


Hi, I have a question about pendelum which I don't know how to solve

A 1.0 kg ball swings from a pendulum and bounces into a spring with a spring constant of 750 N/m.

Here is the diagram:
Untitled.png


1. How do i determine velocity of the ball at the bottom of the swing?
2. How do i determine the maximum compression of the spring?

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


Attempt for number 1

h = 1.5 m - (1.5 m cos 15)
h = 0.05111126 m

Eg = Ek
mgh = 1/2 mv^2
gh = 1/2 mv^2
2gh = v^2
sqrt(2gh) = v

v = 1.00 m/s
Is that right?

2. I don't know how to do 2.

Thanks
 
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  • #2
silentcoder said:
sqrt(2gh) = v

v = 1.00 m/s
That's a remarkable leap. What do you think h equals?
For part 2, use energy again. How fast will the ball be moving when the spring is at maximum compression?
 
  • #3
haruspex said:
That's a remarkable leap. What do you think h equals?
For part 2, use energy again. How fast will the ball be moving when the spring is at maximum
compression?

For number 1:
sqrt(2gh) = v
sqrt(2(9.81)(1.5 - 1.5 cos 15))
v = 1.0 m/s

For number 2:
1/2 mv^2 = 1/2 ke^2
mv^2 = ke^2
e^2 = mv^2 / k
e^2 = (1.0 kg)(1 m/s)^2 / 750 N/m
e^2 = 1/750
e = sqrt(1/750)
e = 0.036 m

is this right?
 
  • #5
haruspex said:
Looks good.

For both of them?

If yes, Thank You for verification!
 
  • #7
haruspex said:
Yes, both.

Appreciate your help!
 

FAQ: How to Determine Velocity and Maximum Compression of a Pendulum-Spring System

How does a pendulum work?

A pendulum works by converting potential energy into kinetic energy as it swings back and forth. As it swings, it experiences the force of gravity and the tension of the string or rod that it is attached to. This back and forth motion creates a regular pattern and can be used to measure time.

What factors affect the swing of a pendulum?

The factors that affect the swing of a pendulum include the length of the string or rod, the mass of the pendulum, and the force of gravity. The longer the pendulum, the slower the swing, and the heavier the pendulum, the faster the swing. Changing the force of gravity by moving the pendulum to a different location can also affect its swing.

What is the period of a pendulum?

The period of a pendulum is the time it takes for one full swing, from left to right and back to left again. The period is affected by the length of the pendulum and the force of gravity, but it is independent of the mass of the pendulum.

What is a simple pendulum?

A simple pendulum is a pendulum consisting of a mass (often a bob or a weight) attached to a string or rod. It is called "simple" because its motion is regular and can be easily calculated using the laws of physics.

How is a pendulum used in science?

Pendulums are used in different scientific fields for various purposes. In physics, they are used to demonstrate the principles of energy conversion and timekeeping. In geology, they are used to measure the force of gravity and the density of the earth. In seismology, they are used to detect and measure earthquakes. In medicine, they are used to measure the pulse and heart rate. In art, they are used to create unique and mesmerizing patterns.

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