How is potential energy transferred between masses separated by a spring?

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When two different masses are separated by a spring and one mass is released while the other is held still, the potential energy stored in the spring may not transfer to the stationary mass. The discussion suggests that the energy from the released spring primarily dissipates as heat rather than being transferred to the second mass. This raises questions about energy conservation, as the energy must go somewhere. Ultimately, the consensus is that no energy is transferred to the stationary mass, and the energy is likely lost as heat. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for analyzing energy transfer in spring systems.
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If two different masses, separated by a spring, are pulled apart, and then the spring is instantaneously release from one of the masses, how much of the potential energy that was stored in the spring is transferred to each mass?
 
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Are you saying that one mass is released while the other is held still?
 
After thinking about it some more, I feel I should restate my question. I've attached a picture to make it more clear. Here's the problem: the fixed base on the right is extended a distance x so that all springs are in tension and then spring 2 is disconnected instantaneously from mass 2. I would like to evaluate the responses of mass 1 and mass 2, but am unsure how much, if any, of the stored energy in spring 2 is transferred to mass 2. Thanks.
 

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Interesting. I'd say that none of it is transferred to the masses.
 
I could see no energy being transferred to mass 2, but wouldn't the stored energy of spring 2 have to go somewhere, mass 1 being the likely candidate, for conservation of energy?
 
Spring 2 will dissipate that energy as heat. (I agree with Doc.)
 
Thanks for the responses! Appreciate it.
 

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