Question

A 31 kg crate is placed on an incline that is 14 degrees below the horizontal. The crate is connected to a spring that is anchored to a vertical wall, such that the spring is parallel to the surface of the incline.

a) If the crate was connected to the spring at equilibrium length, and then allowed to stretch the spring until the crate comes to rest, determine the spring constant. Assume that the incline is friction-less and that the change in length of the spring is 1.83 m.

b) If there is friction between the incline and the crate, would the spring stretch more or less if the incline is friction-less? You must use concepts pertaining to work and energy to receive full credit.

Answer 1