Calculating Force Constant in a Spring Collision

[PhysicsOPhun]

Two blocks, each with a mass 0.40 {\rm kg}, can slide without friction on a horizontal surface. Initially, block 1 is in motion with a speed v = 1.2 {\rm m/s}; block 2 is at rest. When block 1 collides with block 2, a spring bumper on block 1 is compressed. Maximum compression of the spring occurs when the two blocks move with the same speed, v/2 = 0.60 {\rm m/s}.


If the maximum compression of the spring is 1.9 {\rm cm}, what is its force constant?



So, I just posted a question but this one seems just like it. I guess I don't understand what effect each force has on one another and where to begin calculating it. Should I be thinking about the work energy theorm? How would I set this problem up? Thanks in advance to any that can tackle this. This by the way is nothing close to what we have been learning but I guess they are trying to challenge us...and I'm very curious

 

[Astronuc]

It's an inelastic collision since the spring absorbs some of the energy.

Block 1 will decelerate and block 2 will accelerate, and meanwhile some energy will be stored in spring. But, one is told that maximum deflection occurs when the speed of both blocks is v/2 (0.6 m/s).

So what is the KE of block 1 before the collision, and what is the KE of both blocks at v/2? What is the significance of the difference?

 

[sillybean]

well the kinetic energy of both blocks moving at the same velocity is exactly half of the kinetic energy of the first block in motion. which means? i have the same problem and I'm still lost. i'll take a guess though. since both the velocity and the kinetic energy of the first block are halved, can i assume that potential energy of the first block is halved as well?

 

[sillybean]

yes i can :D thanks for the help. i hope the original poster gets this

 

[PhysicsOPhun]

Sillybean...

Hey Sillybean, you have a message!