Question

A 1 kg block is executing simple harmonic motion of amplitude 0.1 m on a smooth horizontal surface under the restoring force of a spring of spring constant 100 N/m. A block of mass 3 kg is gently placed on it at the instant it passes through the mean position. Assuming that the two blocks move together, find the frequency and the amplitude of the motion.

Answer 1

After the 3kg block is gently placed on the 1kg, then let, 1k +3kg = 4kg block and the spring be one system. For this mass spring system, there is so external force. (when oscillation takes place). The momentum should be conserved. Let, 4kg block has velocity v'.

When the blocks are going to the extreme position, there will be only potential energy.