Energy transfer between two coupled masses

[BareFootKing]

Homework Statement

A system consists of two masses. The system has normal modes of frequency wa and wb. Suppose one of the masses is displaced. How long will it take for energy to be transferred to the other mass and then back to the first mass.


this question is a review question for my coming midterm. I believe the question is a general one that doesn't assume or require you to know how they are coupled exactly since nothing else is given

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

Does it suffice to say ,

If we have the equations x1,x2- functions that represent the displacement of the objects from equilibrium- and 1 is displaced then the time required for the energy to transfer from 1 to 2 then back to 1 is twice the period of the kinetic energy of q1 = x1-x2.

 

[mfb]

Hint: The difference wa-wb is related to the coupling strength, and this is related to the energy transfer time.