A solid block X of mass MX may be placed at different locations along a curved ramp. At the bottom of the ramp is a solid block Y of mass MY that is at rest on a horizontal surface. Figure 1 shows both blocks before block X is released. A group of students must graphically determine the relationship between the release height of block X and the speed at which the two-block system travels after the blocks collide and stick together. Figure 2 shows both blocks after the collision. Frictional forces between block X and the ramp and between both blocks and the horizontal surface are considered to be negligible.

State the basic physics principles, laws, or equations that students could use to graphically determine the relationship between the release height of block X and the speed at which the two-block system travels after the blocks collide and stick together.

Block X Mx Block Y My Figure 1. Initial Locations of the Blocks Two-Block System Mx My Figure 2. After the Collision