How Does Gauss's Law Apply to Oscillating Bars in an Electrical System?

[Turpulus]

Question about Gauss flux??

Homework Statement

Two bars, each 30cm long, and each having a resistance of 2-ohms, are connected to a 1,500 volt battery. The bars are attached to each other with 3 insulating springs, each having a spring constant of 9N/m. The two bars are initially at rest, 4cm apart. The switch is closed, and then opened. Assume no friction anywhere in the system. 1. How far will the two bars be from each other with the switch is closed? 2. After the switch is open, what is the closest the two bars wil get to each other? 3. After the switch is open, what is the farthest the two bars will get from each other? 4. Describe the motion of the two bars at time, t, after the switch is open.

The Attempt at a Solution

I was able to find the equivalent spring constant of 27N/m since there are 3 springs. After that, I just don't know how to proceed. I think it's supposed to deal with Gauss Flux. If anyone can give me any advice on how to tackle this one it would be much appreciated. Thanks!

 

[BigJDubs]

Answer: 1. The two bars will be 4cm apart when the switch is closed. 2. The closest the two bars will get to each other is 0 cm once the switch is open. 3. The farthest the two bars will get from each other is 8 cm once the switch is open. 4. The motion of the two bars at time t after the switch is open can be described as a harmonic oscillation. The bars will move towards and away from each other with an amplitude of 4 cm and a period determined by the equivalent spring constant of 27N/m.