A particle of mass 3 kilogram is attached to a spring with a force constant of 300 N/m. It is oscillating on a horizontal frictionless surface with amplitude of 2.00 m. An 8 kilogram object is dropped vertically on top of the 3 kilogram object as it passes through its equilibrium point. The two objects stick together.
(a) Does the amplitude of the vibrating system increase or decrease as a result of the collision?
(b) Determine how does the period change?
(c) Determine how does the mechanical energy of the system change?