Which Block Hits First, Block 1 or Block 2?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a physics problem involving two identical blocks connected by a massless string over a pulley. The key question is whether Block 1 will hit the pulley first or Block 2 will hit the wall. Participants noted that the tension in the string is variable, affecting the motion of Block 1, while Block 2 experiences both tension and gravitational forces. Understanding the angular acceleration and its relationship to the angle of the string is crucial for solving the problem.

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  • Understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Knowledge of tension in strings and its effects on motion
  • Familiarity with angular acceleration concepts
  • Basic principles of gravitational force
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  • Study the effects of variable tension in connected mass systems
  • Learn how to calculate angular acceleration in pulley systems
  • Explore the dynamics of frictionless motion in physics
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A tale of two blocks. "HELP!"

Homework Statement



The system shown below consists of two identical blocks of mass M connected by a massless, flexible string of length 2L. The string passes through a massless pulley which is fixed to the corner of the
supporting table. The string and the masses move with no friction, and gravity acts downward as usual. The system is allowed to move freely from the position shown in the figure.
Which happens first: (i) Block 1 hits the pulley, or (2) Block 2 hits the wall?

C:\Documents and Settings\a\My Documents\My Pictures\untitled1





The attempt at a solution

Frankly I really don't have ane any idea. I considered the tension in the string which is responsible for the motion of the first ball. I understand that the tension does not remain constant and therefore the force on block 1 is variable.

On block 2 tension and gravity are acting. I think that the time it would take to hit the table would depend upon the angular acceleration. angular acceleration would further depend upon the angle between the non horizontal part and the vertical.I am not able to manipulate these ideas into equations. Please help!.

I have posted the picture in the next post.
 
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