A block of mass m is attached to two massless springs of force constants k1 and k2 which are connected in series between two rigid supports on a smooth horizontal table. The block is displaced slightly from its equilibrium position and released.
(i) Derive an expression for the effective force constant of the combination.
(ii) Hence obtain a formula for the time period of the small oscillations of the block.
(iii) Calculate the time period when m=0.50kg, k1=200Nm−1 and k2=300Nm−1.