What Is the Period of Oscillation for Two Masses Connected by a Spring?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the period of oscillation for a system of two different masses connected by a spring, with a focus on the implications of their equilibrium positions and the spring constant.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the relationship between the masses and the spring constant, questioning the assumptions about the equilibrium positions and the nature of the motion involved. There is discussion about the center of mass and the implications of the system being non-fixed.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants raising questions about the assumptions made regarding the equilibrium positions and the nature of the oscillation. Some guidance has been offered regarding external resources for understanding coupled harmonic oscillators.

Contextual Notes

There is uncertainty regarding the definitions of the equilibrium positions and the nature of the displacement of the masses. The original poster's assumption that both masses are at zero displacement at time zero is under scrutiny.

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consider two different masses m1 and m2. They are connected together by a spring. Assuming the spring has a spring constant k. Assume the equilibrium positions are x1= 0 and x2 = 0. Find the period of oscillation.


I know the the angular frequency is a function of both masses not just one mass like a fixed system.


im really stuck on this one
 
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Yep, this is a tricky problem because nothing is fixed and the center of mass can moved. However, at equilibrium, the spring length is given by the difference in the equilibrium positions of both masses.

Are you sure about x1 = 0 and x2 = 0?
 
yes that's what it says in the question. I am thinking that the x1 and x2 coordinates must be the displacement. So at time 0 neither are displaced. Also it was given that the mode of motion for the system was a stretching mode.
 
Since this a very important piece of physics I'm sure there is plenty on the internet.

Just goggle coupled harmonic osciallators or normal modes.
 

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