I threw my 3 year physics teacher a curve on a question similar to the one with the ramp and the elephant.

I had the same question only without the spring. My answer was "insufficient data to give proper answer". Then she felt the need to point it out to the class and try and make a fool of me I told her. You did not provide the air density, gravity coefficient, and friction value of the surface its sliding on. There for with unknown resistants factors in play the distance traveled can not be found. Then she though she'd be smart and give the same question only she add "no resistant factors at play" and I got her again. I quoted Newtons First law of Physics and said that with no resistance factors in play the object would not come to rest. she hated me! And ended up failing me if I remember.. LOL