Two masses which are connected each other with a spring

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on a physics problem involving two masses, each of mass m, connected by a spring with spring constant k, placed on an inclined plane at an angle θ. The problem requires finding the displacement of the two blocks along the incline as a function of time, t, while accounting for kinetic friction with coefficient μ_k. The equations of motion derived include m(d²x₁/dt²) = -k(x₁ + x₀) - mg sin(θ) + μ_k mg cos(θ) for the leading block and m(d²x₂/dt²) = k(x₁ + x₀) - mg sin(θ) + μ_k mg cos(θ) for the trailing block, indicating a coupled motion influenced by the spring force.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Hooke's Law and spring dynamics
  • Knowledge of differential equations and their solutions
  • Familiarity with forces on inclined planes, including gravitational and frictional forces
  • Basic concepts of coupled oscillations in mechanics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of coupled differential equations in mechanical systems
  • Learn about the effects of friction on motion in inclined planes
  • Explore the concept of harmonic motion and its applications in spring systems
  • Investigate numerical methods for solving differential equations in physics
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Students of physics, particularly those studying mechanics, as well as educators and tutors looking to deepen their understanding of coupled oscillations and forces on inclined planes.

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Homework Statement

NBRgW.png

Two blocks both of mass m are placed on an inclined plane making an angle \theta with the ground. The two masses are connected with a spring of spring constant k. The coefficient of kinetic friction is \mu _k for both blocks. Assume that the spring is initially stretched to a length L+x_0 where L is its equilibrium length when it is at rest on a flat surface. Find the displacement of the two blocks ALONG THE INCLINE as a function of time,t, assuming that at that particular time the spring is still stretched. (Hint : Call the displacement of the leading block along the inclined plane x_1. Write the displacement of the trailing block in terms of x_1 and stretch in the spring, x. You will have two time-dependent equations in two unknowns.)

Related Equations
F=-kx (Hooke's Law), differential equations

The attempt at a solution
XN13k.png

m\frac{d^2x_1}{dt^2}=-k(x_1+x_0)-mg\sin\theta+\mu _k mg\cos\theta​
and general solution of this diff. equation
x_1 = A\sin(\sqrt{k/m}t) + B\cos(\sqrt{k/m}t) - \frac{kx_0+mg\sin\theta+\mu _k mg\cos\theta}{k}
XN13k.png

m\frac{d^2x_2}{dt^2}=k(x_1+x_0)-mg\sin\theta+\mu _k mg\cos\theta​

I couldn't continue anymore. Could you help me ?
 
Last edited:
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Draw the direction of motion of both bodies: The force of friction acts in the opposite direction. Note that the displacement of both bodies influences the length of the spring, so both x1 and x2 influences the spring force.

ehild
 

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