- #1
AlkaPhys
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Homework Statement
A block of mass M is compressed a distance x against a spring which has a spring constant k.
When released, the block slides along a frictionless surface until it undergoes a completely inelastic collision with a block of mass 3M. The two blocks travel together some distance and then travel up a ramp where they eventually stop.
1. What is the speed of the two blocks after the collision?
2. How high will they travel up the ramp?
I should give my answer in terms of k,x,g,M
Homework Equations
(mgy), gsin(theta)? mgcos?
The Attempt at a Solution
First, when they collide, the speed of m slows down to 1/4 m when it collides in elastically with 3M. The PE of the spring is 1/2(kx^2). I think I would use mgcos(theta) to find the height. The problem with (mgy) is that, I'm not looking for the gravitational PE, I'm looking for how high it goes. My teacher says that mgcos(theta) is not the way, but I can't find a solution. Can anyone help?