Applying my simplified model:
the system consists of the two end masses connected by a spring of seven
masses. thus my predicted acceleration is 2g + g(7/1) = 9g !
A much simpler model applies:
The upper mass (turn) is initially in equilibrium under your force F and
the total spring weight M. When your F vanishes, the mass m accelerates
under influence of the total string weight Mg, so that a = Mg/m = 9g in
your setup.
Bob Sciamanda (W3NLV)
Physics, Edinboro Univ of PA (em)
trebor@velocity.net http://www.velocity.net/~trebor
----- Original Message -----
From: "John Mallinckrodt" <ajm@CSUPOMONA.EDU>
To: <PHYS-L@lists.nau.edu>
Sent: Friday, November 22, 2002 2:39 PM
Subject: Re: dropped slinky