A physics lab uses two different springs with identical carts of mass on the same…
PHYSICS · Multi-part · AP · Physics 1: Algebra-based · Work Energy and Power · Work Energy and Power
Problem
A physics lab uses two different springs with identical carts of mass 0.30kg on the same low-friction track.
• Trial I employs a spring of constant 250Nm−1 and the cart is released from rest at an amplitude of 0.12m.
• Trial II replaces the spring with one of constant 150Nm−1; the cart is then released from rest at an amplitude of 0.18m.
Assume no non-conservative forces act in either trial.
(a) Determine the total mechanical energy for Trial I.
(b) Determine the total mechanical energy for Trial II.
(c) By what numerical factor did the total mechanical energy change from Trial I to Trial II? Show your reasoning clearly.