Physics diagram showing a hand pulling a string, an elastic, and a block 'M' on a frictionless table with velocity 'v', labeled 'L'.

A mass, M , on a frictionless table is attached (horizontally) to an elastic which is attached to a string. Now suppose you hold the other end of that string in a fixed position, and allow the mass to freely travel at a constant velocity v in the direction opposite the string (and elastic). The string is sufficiently long that it is not taught at the beginning of this scenario. Answer the following: 1.) Describe what happens to the mass as it moves away from your hand (which is holding the string). A series of diagrams might help visualize what will happen. Hint: think about how a rubber band behaves when it gets stretched, and unstretched. See more