Question

Q3-(25 pts) A block of mass m is attached to an ideal spring with rest (equilibrium) length L and spring constant k on the x axis. m other end of the spring is fixed to a wall Initially, the spring is compressed by an amount L/2 and another block of mass 2m is placed in front of the first block (they are not attached). The system is released at t 0 from rest. Ignore friction and the sizes of the blocks. position compressed by L/2 initial position: spring is x axis. The l a) At what time after release do the blocks pass from the equilibrium point? t- b) Where do the blocks start to move separately (give the value of x) and why? (Think simple: if two objects move separately which physical quantity differs for them?) What is the new amplitude and frequency of oscillation of the block attached to the spring after the blocks are separated? amplitude: frequency: c) Show that the total mechanical energy of the system (blocks+spring) is conserved before t 0 and after the blocks move separately. Why is it conserved? d) Show that the total momentum of the system (blocks) is not conserved before t 0 and after the blocks move separately. Why is it not conserved?

Answer 1

Here total mass = 3m , spring constant k

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