Spring compression -- Ball colliding with a spring-mounted platform

In summary, spring compression is the decrease in length of a spring when a force is applied to it. It is typically measured in units of length and is affected by the amount of force applied, the stiffness and material of the spring, and the length of the spring. In real-world applications, spring compression is used in everyday objects like car suspensions and mattresses, as well as in industrial equipment such as shock absorbers and door closers.
  • #1
dge
4
2
Homework Statement
What is the lowest position attained by the platform after it collides elastically with a ball.
Relevant Equations
1/2mv^2=KE
1/2kx^2=Us
mgx=Ug
1639430782496.png

I've tried establishing a systems of equations with -(1/2)kx^2+mpgx+(1/2)mpvp^2=0, but this leads to an annoying quadratic that when solved does not give one of the listed answers. My thought was that the spring's potential energy is going to be equal to the gravitational potential energy and kinetic energy.
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
dge said:
I've tried establishing a systems of equations
Don't let us guess. Show your work !
Also: what does it mean that the ball collides elastically with the platform ?

##\ ##
 
  • #3
dge said:
-(1/2)kx^2+mpgx+(1/2)mpvp^2=0
How did you get the value of ##v_p##?
 

FAQ: Spring compression -- Ball colliding with a spring-mounted platform

How does the spring compression affect the collision of the ball?

The spring compression affects the collision of the ball by storing potential energy as it is compressed. This energy is then released when the spring rebounds, causing the ball to bounce off the platform with a greater velocity.

What factors determine the amount of spring compression during the collision?

The amount of spring compression during the collision is determined by the mass of the ball, the stiffness of the spring, and the initial velocity of the ball.

Can the spring compression be used to calculate the force of the collision?

Yes, the spring compression can be used to calculate the force of the collision by using Hooke's Law, which states that the force exerted by a spring is directly proportional to its displacement.

How does the angle of the platform affect the spring compression?

The angle of the platform does not directly affect the spring compression, but it can affect the direction and magnitude of the ball's rebound velocity.

Is the spring compression affected by the surface material of the platform?

Yes, the surface material of the platform can affect the spring compression by providing more or less resistance to the ball's impact, which can result in a different amount of compression in the spring.

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