Two blocks of masses 3.0 kg and 5.0 kg are connected by a spring and rest on a frictionless surface. They are given velocities toward each other such that the 3.0 kg block travels initially at 1.2 m/s toward the center of mass, which remains at rest. What is the initial speed of the other block?

-0.7 m/sec

Explanation:

Mass of first block = m1 =3.0 kg

Mass of second block = m2= 5.0 kg

Velocity of first block = V1= 1.2 m/s

Velocity of second block = V2 = ?

Momentum of Center of mass MVcom  is sum of both blocks momentum and is given by

MVcom= m1v1+m2v2

Where

M= mass of center of mass

Vcom= Velocity of center of mass=0 m/s (because center of mass is at rest , so Vcom = 0 m.sec)

Putting values, we get;

0= 3×1.2+5v2

==> v2=  3.6/5= - 0.7 m/s

-ve sign indicates that block 2 is moving in opposite direction of block 1