Two masses attached with a spring.

In summary, the problem involves two masses, M1 and M2, connected by a massless spring of force constant k and unstretched length a. Using the given x distances from the wall, the normal coordinates and frequencies of vibration can be obtained for motion along the line joining the particles. However, it is unclear if M1 is connected to the wall or resting on a floor. The basic equation for the individual motion of the particles should be written down first.
  • #1
nightwing973
4
0
1. Two masses M1 and M2 are joined by a massless spring of force constant k and unstretched length a. Obtain the normal coordinates of the system for motion along the line joining the particles, as well as the normal frequencies of vibration.http://tinypic.com/view.php?pic=33voh6v&s=7

Here is the picture given with the problem, it includes x distances from the wall. I'm not totally sure if the mass m1 is connected to the wall, or resting on a floor, as it doesn't say anything about that in the problem.

I'm not totally sure what "normal coordinates" are either. I'm just assuming the masses are only attached to each other, not the wall, and that "normal coordinates" is another way of saying "find the position/x value", which would explain the given x's.

Thank you!
 
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  • #2
To begin with...

first, write down the basic equation for the motion of the particles individually!

What do u get??
 
  • #3
I don't understand. The problem doesn't say anything about a force being applied to the spring system.
 

FAQ: Two masses attached with a spring.

What is the concept behind "Two masses attached with a spring?"

The concept behind "Two masses attached with a spring" is that when two masses are connected by a spring, they will experience oscillatory motion due to the forces of the spring pulling them towards each other and the masses pulling the spring in the opposite direction.

What is Hooke's Law and how does it relate to "Two masses attached with a spring?"

Hooke's Law states that the force exerted by a spring is directly proportional to the displacement of the spring from its equilibrium position. In the case of "Two masses attached with a spring," Hooke's Law explains how the spring exerts a force on the masses, causing them to move and creating a restoring force that brings them back to their equilibrium position.

How do the masses and spring affect the frequency of oscillation in "Two masses attached with a spring?"

The masses and spring have a direct impact on the frequency of oscillation in "Two masses attached with a spring." The larger the masses, the slower the oscillation will be, while a stiffer spring will result in a higher frequency of oscillation.

What factors can affect the amplitude of oscillation in "Two masses attached with a spring?"

The amplitude of oscillation in "Two masses attached with a spring" can be affected by several factors. These include the initial displacement of the masses, the stiffness of the spring, and any external forces acting on the system.

What are some real-world applications of "Two masses attached with a spring?"

"Two masses attached with a spring" has many real-world applications, including in shock absorbers for cars, suspension systems for bridges, and even in musical instruments like guitars and pianos. It is also used in seismometers to measure seismic activity and in various mechanical systems to dampen vibrations.

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