Simple Harmonic Motion: Calculating Speeds of Blocks with a Compressed Spring

AI Thread Summary
The problem involves two blocks of different masses on a frictionless surface, separated by a compressed spring. When the spring is released, the conservation of momentum and energy principles apply to determine the speeds of the blocks. The potential energy stored in the spring is converted into kinetic energy of the blocks as they move apart. The spring's compression and its constant are crucial for calculating the initial potential energy. Understanding these concepts is essential for solving the problem effectively.
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Homework Statement



A 15.8 kg block and a 31.6 kg block are resting on a horizontal frictionless surface. Between the two is squeezed a spring (spring constant = 1868 N/m). The spring is compressed by 0.152 m from its unstrained length and is not attached permanently to either block. With what speed does each block move away when the mechanism keeping the spring squeezed is released and the spring falls away?


The Attempt at a Solution



This is a sample problem for the final exam. Please explain the process, I'm not just looking for a numerical answer.
 
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Show what you've done so far and point out where you are stuck.

Hint: What's conserved?

(This isn't a SHM problem.)
 

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