- #1
s.opethian
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Homework Statement
Two particles P and Q of masses 1 kg and 2kg respectively are hanging vertically from the ends of a light inextensible string which passes over a smooth fixed pulley. The system is released from rest with both particles a distance of 1.5 m above a floor. When the masses have been moving for 0.5s the string breaks. Find the further time that elapses before P hits the floor.
Homework Equations
2g - T = 2a
T- g = a
s=ut+1/2at^2
The Attempt at a Solution
First, I found the acceleration of the two the particles, and then found the distance particle Q moves in the 0.5seconds. Then, added this distance to 1.5m as it summed up to be the distance that P had to cover in order to hit the floor. But I couldn't proceed to solve the rest of the sum as I don't understand the string breakage theory. Help, anyone?