Two blocks of masses and are floating in deep space

PHYSICS · Subjective · A Level · Physics · Mechanics and materials · Mechanics and materials

Problem

Two blocks of masses m1m_1 and m2m_2 are floating in deep space, initially held together by a compressed, massless spring. The system is at rest before the spring is released. After the blocks lose contact with the spring, they move apart along a straight line with speeds v1v_1 and v2v_2, respectively. Derive an expression for the ratio v1v2\dfrac{v_1}{v_2} in terms of m1m_1 and m2m_2.

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