The Ol' Spring and Bullet Combo

In summary, a 4.66 g bullet with an initial speed of 410 m/s passes through a 1.18 kg block connected to a spring with a spring constant of 844 N/m. The block moves 4.01 cm to the right after impact. To calculate the speed at which the bullet emerges from the block, we can use the conservation of momentum equation and the block's velocity after the bullet passed through. The energy lost in the collision can also be calculated using equations such as Hooke's law and momentum and kinetic energy equations. If unsure where to start, hints can be helpful.
  • #1
physicsbro
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Homework Statement


A 4.66 g bullet moving with an initial speed of vi = 410 m/s is fired into and passes through a 1.18 kg block.The block, initially at rest on a frictionless horizontal surface, is connected to a spring with a spring constant of 844 N/m.
a) If the block moves x = 4.01 cm to the right after impact, calculate the speed at which the bullet emerges from the block.
b) Calculate the energy lost in the collision.

Homework Equations



Not entirely sure, maybe some hooke's law, maybe a little bit of momentum and KE equations.

The Attempt at a Solution



I'm not sure where to start and any hints would be much appreciated.
 
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  • #2
What was the block's velocity after the bullet passed through? You can use that and the conservation of momentum equation to calculate the bullet's exit speed.
 
  • #3
Thanks.
 

FAQ: The Ol' Spring and Bullet Combo

1. How does "The Ol' Spring and Bullet Combo" work?

The Ol' Spring and Bullet Combo is a demonstration of the conservation of energy. When the bullet is fired from the gun, it has kinetic energy. As it travels through the air, it loses some of this energy due to air resistance. When the bullet hits the spring, the remaining kinetic energy is transferred into potential energy, causing the spring to compress. When the spring releases, the potential energy is converted back into kinetic energy, launching the bullet back into the air.

2. What materials are needed to perform "The Ol' Spring and Bullet Combo"?

To perform this demonstration, you will need a bullet, a spring, a gun, and a solid surface to catch the bullet. It is important to use safety precautions, such as wearing safety goggles and performing the demonstration in a controlled environment.

3. Is "The Ol' Spring and Bullet Combo" safe to perform?

As with any scientific demonstration involving projectiles, there is always a risk of injury. It is important to take proper safety precautions and perform the demonstration in a controlled environment. It is also recommended to have a trained professional or experienced individual supervise the demonstration.

4. Can "The Ol' Spring and Bullet Combo" be used to teach other scientific concepts?

Yes, this demonstration can be used to teach several scientific concepts, such as the conservation of energy, potential and kinetic energy, and projectile motion. It can also be used to discuss the effects of air resistance and the importance of safety in scientific experiments.

5. Can "The Ol' Spring and Bullet Combo" be modified for different levels of difficulty?

Yes, this demonstration can be modified in several ways to make it more challenging or accessible for different levels of understanding. For example, the weight or speed of the bullet can be changed, or the angle at which the bullet hits the spring can be adjusted. It can also be used as a hands-on activity to calculate and compare the energy transfer of different combinations of springs and bullets.

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