Question

particle P of mass m kg is attached to two fixed points A and B by two identical model springs, each of stiffness k and
natural length l . The point A is at a height / l above the point B. The particle is free to oscillate vertically under gravity. The
stiffness of each spring is given by k = 4mg/l .
The horizontal level passing through the fixed point A is taken as the datum for the gravitational potential energy. The
particle P is initially released from rest at a distance l below A.
When m = 2.9 kg and l = 3.81 m, calculate the total mechanical energy (can be either positive or negative) of the system,
in joules. Give your answer to 3 decimal places and take g = 9.81 ms .