Question

Consider an elevator carrying Kermit the frog weighing 4000.0 N is held 5.00 m above a spring with a force constant of 8000.0 N/m. The elevator falls onto the spring while subject to a frictional force (brake) of 1000.0 N. Determine the maximum compression distance, x, of the spring.

Answer 1

Answer:

Maximum compression distance (x) = 2.236 m (Approx)

Explanation:

Given:

Weight of frog = 4,000 N

Height = 5 m

Constant force = 8,000 N/m

Frictional force = 1,000 N

Find:

Maximum compression distance (x)

Computation:

Using Law of conservation;

mgh = 1/2(k)(x)²

4,000(5) = 1/2(8,000)(x)²

Maximum compression distance (x) = 2.236 m (Approx)