Eigenfrequencies of couple oscillators

[CanIExplore]

Homework Statement

I have solved for the eigenfrequencies of a system composed of two particles of masses m connected to each other by a spring of constant 2k and where one particle is connected to a wall by a spring of constant 4k and the other particle is connected to a second wall by a spring with constant k. The particles are restricted to move along the line containing all three springs.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

I have obtained the eigenfrequencies already but they came out to be imaginary. I am wondering what it means for a frequency to be non real, or if it is even possible to have such an imaginary frequency.

 

[tiny-tim]

Hi CanIExplore!

I have obtained the eigenfrequencies already but they came out to be imaginary. I am wondering what it means for a frequency to be non real, or if it is even possible to have such an imaginary frequency.

Sounds like they're exponential …

e^ikt is shm …

imaginary k corresponds to e^kt or e^-kt