Q. Two blocks, of masses and , are connected to a light spring of spring constant that has one end fixed, as shown in figure. The horizontal surface and the pulley are frictionless. The blocks are released from rest when the spring is non-deformed. The string is light. Select the correct statement(s).

Work, Energy and Power Report Error

Solution:

Maximum extension will be at the moment when both masses stop momentarily after going down. Applying W-E theorem from starting to that instant,



System will have maximum KE when net force on the system becomes zero.


Hence, will be maximum when mass has gone down by . Applying W/E theorem,


Maximum energy of spring

Therefore maximum spring energy maximum When is maximum .
Spring energy i.e. (4) is wrong.