Problem 1 A block of mass m is sliding on a frictionless,
horizontal surface, with a velocity vi . It hits an ideal spring,
of spring constant k, which is attached to the wall. The spring
compresses until the block momentarily stops, and then starts
expanding again, so the block ultimately bounces off (see Example
5.6.2). (a) Write down an equation of motion (a function x(t)) for
the block, which is valid for as long as it is in contact with the
spring. For simplicity, assume the block is initially moving to the
right, take the time when it first makes contact with the spring to
be t = 0, and let the position of the block at that time to be x =
0. Make sure that you express any constants in your equation (such
as A or ω) in terms of the given data, namely, m, vi , and k. (b)
Sketch the function x(t) for the relevant time interval.