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Skuzzy
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Homework Statement
A particle (4m) is suspended from a fixed point by a spring of stiffness k and natural length l0. An identical 2nd spring is attached to this particle, and a mass (3m) is attached to its end. The system hangs vertically in equilibrium.
Take the datuim of P.E. a in each spring to be the natural length of that spring.
http://img176.imageshack.us/img176/2653/2springsytem.jpg
Write down the an equation for the energy stored in the two springs.
Homework Equations
The Attempt at a Solution
Spring 1, exerts force H1=k(x1-l0)i
it supports both particles so W1=7mgi
Spring 2, exerts force H2=k(x2-l0)i
it supports only the lower particle so W2=3mgi
The energy function U(x) = - [tex]-\int(F(x)) dx[/tex]
I don't know how to proceed: Should I be integrating 2 equations for the force? Don't I need 'x' in F(x) to be the same in both cases? Have I just got myself in a muddle and am thinking about this all the wrong way?
Any help appreciated.
Homework Statement
Homework Equations
The Attempt at a Solution
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