Masses connected to spring momentum

In summary, the problem involves two blocks, one with a mass of 1.3 kg and the other with a mass of 3.0 kg, connected by a compressed spring on a frictionless table. The first part of the problem involves a stopper preventing the smaller block from moving while the spring is released and the larger block moves away at a speed of 2.0 m/s. In the second part, the stopper is removed and both blocks are released at the same time. The goal is to find the speed of the smaller block when the spring stops acting on it. Using the equation vfM = 2vCM - v0M, where vfM is the final velocity of the larger block, vCM
  • #1
Raj Kishore
6
0
Homework Statement
An m = 1.3 kg block and an M = 3.0 kg block have a spring compressed between them and rest on a frictionless table. With a stopper in place that prevents m from moving, the spring is compressed and released so that M moves away with a speed 2.0 m/s.

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The spring is compressed exactly as before, but this time without the stopper in place. Both blocks are released at the same time. What is the speed of mass m when the spring stops acting on it?

The attempt at a solution
What I did to solve this was I used the equation vfM = 2vCM - v0M

vCM = (Mv0M + mv0m)/(m+M)

Then I said Mv0M = mvfm + MvfM

So, (Mv0M - MvfM)/m = vfm

I got the final answer to be 1.79 m/s, but it is wrong. Thanks for helping.
 
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  • #2
Can you explain your reasoning a bit more? Where did vfM = 2vCM - v0M come from, for example?
 
  • #3
That is a formula we were taught
 
  • #4
Well, it seems wrong to me. How do you know is applies here?
 

Related to Masses connected to spring momentum

What is the concept of "masses connected to spring momentum"?

The concept of "masses connected to spring momentum" involves the study of the motion and behavior of masses connected to a spring. This is based on the law of conservation of momentum, which states that the total momentum of an isolated system remains constant.

How are masses connected to spring momentum related?

The relationship between masses and spring momentum lies in the fact that the motion of the masses is affected by the forces exerted by the spring. As the masses move, the spring stretches or compresses, storing or releasing potential energy, which then contributes to the overall momentum of the system.

What factors affect the momentum of masses connected to a spring?

The momentum of masses connected to a spring can be affected by several factors, including the mass of the objects, the spring constant, and the initial conditions such as the amplitude and velocity of the masses. Additionally, external forces such as friction and air resistance can also impact the momentum of the system.

What is the significance of studying masses connected to spring momentum?

Studying masses connected to spring momentum is important for understanding the principles of conservation of energy and momentum, which are fundamental concepts in physics. It also has practical applications in fields such as engineering, where the behavior of springs and masses is crucial in the design of systems and structures.

How can the momentum of masses connected to a spring be calculated?

The momentum of masses connected to a spring can be calculated using the equation p = mv, where p represents momentum, m is the mass of the object, and v is the velocity of the object. In cases where the spring is involved, the potential energy stored in the spring can also be used to calculate the kinetic energy and momentum of the system.

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