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Gill987
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Homework Statement
A system consists of two blocks each of mass M, connected by a spring of force constant k. The system is initially shoved against a wall so that the spring is compressed a distance D from its original uncompressed length. Floor is frictionless. The system is now released with no initial velocity.
I had to find the velocity of the right hand block when the spring expands back to its equilibrium position which is the instant the left block leaves the wall (but still has 0 velocity), which was D√(k/M)
V center of mass was (D/2)√(k/M)
a. Eventually as the system moves to the right the spring will compress a maximum S. What will S be equal to?
b. Using energy, explain why S should be less than, greater than, or equal to D.
Homework Equations
F=-kx
F= -dU/dx
U=(1/2)kx^2
The Attempt at a Solution
I don't have much, was trying center of mass equations but things would cancel out. Was trying to use conservation of energy, but I figured the left block now has a velocity and the right block has a different velocity, with the left velocity being greater in order for the spring to be compressed, and I have no idea what the velocities are.
Any help would be appreciated, thanks.
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