A block is held between two vertical springs and is in equilibrium. If the upper spring is cut, its initial acceleration is 6 m s⁻² downward. If instead the lower spring is cut, the initial acceleration magnitude is:

Question

G1 Physics · Accepted Answer

Let upper and lower spring forces be U and L. Equilibrium gives U=mg+L. Cutting upper gives mg+L=6m, so U=6m. Cutting lower gives net U-mg=L=4m, hence acceleration 4 m s⁻². Option B.