# Homework Help: Falling stick with weight on the end

1. Jan 27, 2013

### leroyjenkens

1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data

There's a stick with a weight at the end standing straight up and I touch it slightly so it falls over. The stick is massless, the weight is 20kg and the length of the stick is 0.5 meters. How long will it take for the weight at the end to hit the ground?

2. Relevant equations

$$ƩF=\frac{dp}{dt}$$
$$Ʃτ=\frac{dL}{dt}$$

3. The attempt at a solution

I don't even know where to begin with this one. This class is horrible. There's no textbook, just examples that aren't similar at all to the problems given on the homework.

2. Jan 27, 2013

### TSny

Hello, leroyjenkens.

Is any information given as to whether or not there is any slipping of the end of the stick that is on the supporting surface?

In accordance with the rules of this forum, you need to show some attempt at a solution before we are allowed to provide any specific help.

3. Jan 28, 2013

### leroyjenkens

Thanks for the response.

Last edited: Jan 28, 2013
4. Jan 28, 2013

### haruspex

Fwiw, if there's no friction it becomes trivial. If there is friction it becomes indeterminate.