Chapter 10, Problem 40PQ

There is a compressed spring between two laboratory carts of masses m₁ and m₂. Initially, the carts are held at rest on a horizontal track (Fig. P10.40A). The carts are released, and the cart of mass m₁ has velocity ${\stackrel{\to }{v}}_1$ in the positive x direction (Fig. P10.40B). Assume rolling friction is negligible.

a. What is the net external force on the two-cart spring system?

b. Find an expression for the velocity of cart 2.

c. Sometimes, mistakes are made in a laboratory. For example, what changes in parts (a) and (b) if the track is not level as shown in Figure P10.40C? Explain your answer.