Classical Mechanics (Goldstein) · Problem 33

The Hamilton Equations of Motion — Herbert Goldstein, Charles Poole, John Safko

Physics — Mechanics · two-mass-spring-hole-steady-oscillations

Problem

Two mass points, m1m_1 and m2m_2, are connected by a string that acts as a Hooke's-law spring with force constant kk. One particle is free to move without friction on a smooth horizontal plane surface, the other hangs vertically down from the string through a hole in the surface. Find the condition for steady motion in which the mass point on the plane rotates uniformly at constant distance from the hole. Investigate the small oscillations in the radial distance from the hole, and in the vertical height of the second particle.

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