A toy gun launches a small plastic sphere using a spring. The spring has a spring constanct of 20 J/M^2 and the plastic sphere has a mass of 25 grams.
Before launch
x initial is -10cm
velocity initial is 0 m/s
After launch
x final is o cm
In order to determine the speed of the sphere just as it leaves the toy gun, I first need to identify the forms of energy relevant to the problem. What are the forms of energy I need to list?
To determine the speed of the plastic sphere just as it leaves the toy gun, you need to consider the forms of energy relevant to the problem. In this case, the forms of energy you should list are:
1. Potential Energy: The potential energy of the spring is relevant because it is the initial energy stored in the spring before it is released. It can be calculated using the formula:
Potential Energy = (1/2) * spring constant * (change in spring length)^2
2. Kinetic Energy: The kinetic energy of the plastic sphere is relevant because it is the energy associated with its motion. It can be calculated using the formula:
Kinetic Energy = (1/2) * mass * velocity^2
In this scenario, the potential energy of the spring is converted into the kinetic energy of the sphere as it is launched. By calculating the potential energy initially stored in the spring, you can equate it to the kinetic energy of the sphere just as it leaves the toy gun to determine its speed.