What is the Angular Frequency of Two Masses on a Spring?

In summary, the conversation discusses how to calculate the angular frequency of oscillation for two blocks of different masses attached to a spring. The equations for the motion of the blocks are given, and it is suggested to find an equation where the left-hand side only depends on the second derivative of (w-x). The concept of center of mass is also mentioned, and a suggestion is made to use \ddot{x} instead of \ddot{x}. Finally, a potential approach is suggested to use a single equation for both masses instead of two separate equations.
  • #1
americanforest
223
0

Homework Statement


We attach two blocks of masses m1 = 10 kg and m2 = 4 kg to either end of a spring of spring constant k = 4 N/m and set them into oscillation. Calculate the angular frequency ω of the oscillation

Homework Equations


[tex]M_{1}{x}^{..}=k(w-x)[/tex]
[tex]M_{2}{w}^{..}=-k(w-x)[/tex]

where x and w are the distance from equilibrium position of m1 and m2 respectively.

Attempt

Honestly, I have absolutely no idea. How does one start this?
 
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  • #2
Notice that the right-hand sides depend only on w-x. Wouldn't it be nice if you had an equation where the left-hand side depended only on (d/dt)2(w-x)? How could you get such an equation?
 
  • #3
What can one say about the center of mass? How does each move with respect to the CM?

Also use \ddot{x} for [tex]\ddot{x}[/tex]
 
  • #4
Are you suggesting I make one equation for both masses instead of two separate equations?

[tex]x_{cm}=\frac{{m_{1}x_{1}+m_{2}x_{2}}}{{\sum{m}}}[/tex]

[tex]x_{1}=w, x_{2}=x[/tex]
 
  • #5
I know this thread is old, but I was wondering if someone could confirm the attempt suggested in the above post.
 

1. What is a two masses on a spring system?

A two masses on a spring system is a physical system that consists of two masses connected by a spring. The system is usually used to model simple harmonic motion, where the masses oscillate back and forth around their equilibrium positions.

2. What is the equation to calculate the period of a two masses on a spring system?

The equation to calculate the period of a two masses on a spring system is T = 2π√(m/k), where T is the period, m is the mass, and k is the spring constant. This equation is derived from Hooke's law, which states that the force exerted by a spring is proportional to its displacement from equilibrium.

3. How does changing the mass affect the period of a two masses on a spring system?

Changing the mass in a two masses on a spring system will affect the period by changing the overall inertia of the system. Heavier masses will have a longer period, as they require more force to accelerate and decelerate during each oscillation. On the other hand, lighter masses will have a shorter period.

4. What happens to the period if the spring constant is increased?

If the spring constant is increased, the period of a two masses on a spring system will decrease. This is because a higher spring constant means the spring is stiffer and will exert a greater force on the masses, causing them to oscillate at a faster rate.

5. Can the two masses on a spring system experience resonance?

Yes, the two masses on a spring system can experience resonance. This occurs when the frequency of an external force applied to the system matches the natural frequency of the system. In this case, the amplitude of the oscillations will increase significantly, potentially leading to system failure if the force is too strong.

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