Mechanical Energy example spring compression

The video tutorial explains how to solve a physics problem involving a block compressing a spring using energy methods. It covers the initial conditions, the application of energy conservation principles, and the breakdown of forces acting on the block. The tutorial includes drawing a free body diagram, analyzing kinetic, potential, and elastic energy changes, and solving the problem algebraically to find the initial velocity of the block.

What is the maximum compression of the spring in the given problem?

• 15 centimeters

• 10 centimeters

• 5 centimeters

• 20 centimeters

What is the spring stiffness given in the problem?

• 20 newtons per meter

• 5 newtons per meter

• 10 newtons per meter

• 15 newtons per meter

What is the mass of the block in the problem?

• 2 kilograms

• 3 kilograms

• 4 kilograms

• 5 kilograms

Which method is suggested as the easiest way to solve the problem?

• Newton's Laws

• Energy Methods

• Graphical Analysis

• Dimensional Analysis

What is the role of the normal force in the problem?

• It does work on the block

• It changes the block's velocity

• It does no work on the block

• It compresses the spring

What is the initial velocity of the block when it just starts compressing the spring?

• 0.200 meters per second

• 0.100 meters per second

• 0.158 meters per second

• 0.250 meters per second

Which energy component is eliminated due to no change in height?

• Elastic Energy

• Thermal Energy

• Kinetic Energy

• Gravitational Potential Energy