The solution before revision #15392 of , by giorgiotinashvili. This is not the current version.

Statement

2.5.38∗. In one straight line on a smooth horizontal plane with equal intervals there are bars of mass each. A constant horizontal force is applied to the first of the bars. Determine the speed of the bars before and immediately after the nth impact. Consider the speed limit value for tending to infinity, if the width of the gaps between the bars is . The blows of the bars are absolutely inelastic.

 For problem $2.5.38^*$

Solution

Let's consider 1st and 2nd collision **First collision** : From the law of conservation of energy

Considering Newton's 2nd law ()

Where is the velocity before the collision Law of conservation of momentum

Second collision

From the law of conservation of energy

Likewise, considering :

Where is the velocity after the collision From and , we can see that the velocity index is the same as the coefficient in front of the mass and at the top Thus leading to the following recurrence relation

Where is the velocity before the collision Law of conservation of momentum of the collision

Substituting into the expression :

When , :

Whence it follows that the velocity after collision, where , will be equal to

Answer