John Berry
Bill McMurtry wrote:
> Hi all,
>
> I pose a simple mechanical question to which, I hope, there is a simple
> answer.
>
> Suppose we have a balanced beam pivoted at the centre and at rest
> horizontally (like a see-saw or teeter-totter). Above each end of this beam
> are suspended two equal masses. Both masses are at equal height. The masses
> are positioned so that when dropped each will strike opposite ends of the
> horizontal beam at equal distances from the central pivot point.
>
> In this arrangement if both equal masses are dropped at the same time and
> therefore impact the balanced beam at the same time, the beam will remain
> horizontal and balanced. Each end of the beam experiences an equal reaction
> to the gained inertial energy of each mass falling under the influence of
> gravity.
>
> Suppose we place a device at one end of the beam so that on impact the
> gained inertial energy of one mass is captured and stored. A spring/catch
> mechanism to perform this function is the simplest device that comes to
> mind. Ignore the added weight of the spring/catch mechanism, for the sake
> of clarity. Would the balanced beam experience, on impact of the two
> falling masses, an unequal reaction due to the gained inertial energy of
> one mass being captured and stored by the spring/catch mechanism?
>
> Comments?
>
> Bill.