Write an executable script file (m-file) that takes no inputs and returns the displacement and stored energy of a spring system after prompting the user for the 1) input forces (in N) on the spring and 2) the spring constant (in N/m).

The force required to compress a linear spring is given by the equation: F = kx where F is the force in newtons and k is the spring constant in newtons per meter. The potential energy stored in the compressed spring is given by the equation: E = kx^2/2 where E is the energy in joules.

Write an executable script file (m-file) that takes no inputs and returns the displacement and stored energy of a spring system after prompting the user for the 1) input forces (in N) on the spring and 2) the spring constant (in N/m). Use plenty of comments to annotate your code.

I have no idea how to begin to solve this problem. How do I use an input prompt with a script that takes no inputs??

[Walter Roberson]

How would you use an input prompt in a function that accepted parameters? Is there a difference?

Have you searched the MATLAB documention for the topic of input prompt ?

Answer 1

[James Tursa]

To get you started, simply create an m-file with something like this at the front end:

F = input('Input the force on the spring (N): ');
k = input('Input the spring constant (N/m): ');

Then add your code to determine x and subsequently calculate E.

[JohnLanger]

I've managed to talk with some people in person, and I think I have a greater comprehension now.