Finding the Speeds of Objects in a Spring System

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In summary, the problem involves two objects of different masses compressing a spring between them and then releasing it from rest. The spring has a constant of 1250 N/m and is not attached to either object, causing it to drop to the surface after expansion. Part a asks for the speeds of the objects after the spring has expanded to its unstretched position assuming a frictionless surface. Part b introduces a frictional surface with coefficients of 0.1 and gives the speed of one object at a certain time, asking for the speed of the other object at the same time. This can be solved using the concepts of energy and center of mass of a system.
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hannam
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Homework Statement


Object A (1 kg) and B (3 kg) are forced together,
initially compressing a spring S between them by 6 cm;
then the system is released from rest. The spring with
k=1250 N/m is not fastened to either block and drops to
the surface after it has expanded to its unstretched position.
a) By assuming frictionless surface, what are the speeds of objects after the spring has expanded
to its unstretched position?
b) Assume that the surface is frictional with s=k=0.1. If object B has speed of 0.2 m/s at 0.5 s
after the system is released from rest, what should the speed of object A be at this time instant?
(Hint: Consider “center of mass of a system” concep


Homework Equations



W=1/2kx^2
F=k.x
K=1/2mV^2

The Attempt at a Solution



i'm having trouble with this energy thing. i tried 1/2kx^2=1/2mv1^2+1/2mv2^2
i found 37,5=1/2v1^2 + 1/2v2^2
and i tried F=k.x=75 .
then used f=m.a formula both objects and found V1=3V2. so i solved equation but it seems all wrong.
can you help?
 
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and i have no idea what to do in part b :)
 
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can anyone help ? :(
 

FAQ: Finding the Speeds of Objects in a Spring System

What is the definition of "Spring with two objects" in physics?

In physics, a spring with two objects refers to a physical system consisting of two objects connected by a spring, where the objects can move independently from each other.

How is the motion of a spring with two objects described mathematically?

The motion of a spring with two objects can be described using Hooke's Law, which states that the force exerted by the spring is directly proportional to the displacement of the objects from their equilibrium position.

What factors affect the frequency of a spring with two objects?

The frequency of a spring with two objects depends on the mass of the objects, the stiffness of the spring, and the amplitude of the motion.

How does the energy of a spring with two objects change during oscillation?

The energy of a spring with two objects changes between kinetic energy and potential energy as the objects oscillate back and forth. At the equilibrium position, the energy is entirely potential, while at the maximum displacement, the energy is entirely kinetic.

What are some real-life examples of a spring with two objects?

Some real-life examples of a spring with two objects include a mass-spring system in a pendulum, a car's suspension system, and a trampoline with two people jumping on it.

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