The two masses, M1 = 2kg and M2 = 4kg are compressing a spring (of 0 mass) between them and are held that way through a “rubber band”. The potential energy in the spring is 8J. They are primarily at rest. The rubber band breaks and all of the energy stored in the spring are transferred to the masses as they slide all along a level, frictionless surface.
i) Determine the velocities of each of the masses after the band breaks. (Make a draw and point out the directions in terms of your coordinate system.)
ii) Determine the ratio of the kinetic energies of the masses, KE1/KE2.