Speed when a system is jerked into motion

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SUMMARY

The discussion revolves around a physics problem involving two particles of masses 8 kg and 5 kg connected by a light inextensible string over a smooth pulley. The key findings include that the tension in the string can be calculated using Newton's second law, and the highest point reached by the 5 kg mass is determined to be 10 m above the ground. The participants express confusion regarding the term "speed with which the system is jerked into motion," clarifying that it refers to the initial speed of the system when the particles are released from rest, which is zero. The impulse experienced by the string is defined as the change in momentum during this motion.

PREREQUISITES
  • Newton's Second Law of Motion
  • Kinematics equations for uniformly accelerated motion
  • Concept of impulse and momentum
  • Understanding of inextensible strings in mechanics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of tension in systems with pulleys and multiple masses.
  • Learn how to apply kinematic equations to find maximum heights in similar problems.
  • Explore the concept of impulse and its calculation in dynamic systems.
  • Investigate the effects of inextensible strings on the motion of connected masses.
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Students studying mechanics, physics educators, and anyone interested in understanding dynamics involving pulleys and connected masses.

harimakenji
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Homework Statement


Two particles of masses 8 kg and 5 kg are connected to the two ends of a light inextensible string which passes over a fixed smooth pulley. Initially each of the two particles are held at a position which is 5 m above a horizontal ground. The objects are then released from rest. Assuming that the particles never reach the pulley, and also that the particles do not rebound when they strike the ground
(i) find the tension in the string and the acceleration of each particle
(ii) find the distance above the ground of the point H, the highest point reached by the 5 kg mass
(iii) find the speed with which the system is jerked into motion and the impulse experienced by the string during the jerk

Homework Equations


Kinematics and dynamics

The Attempt at a Solution


(i) I am able to do this

(ii) because the particles never reach the pulley, the highest point is 10 m, which is when the 8 kg-mass reaches the ground. Correct?

(iii) I do not understand this one. What is the meaning "speed with which the system is jerked into motion"? I interpreted it as the initial speed of the system and the answer should be zero? If not, maybe the speed when the particles start to move. But how to find it? I have acceleration and the initial speed is zero (because the particles are at rest and then released), but the speed depends on the time. What is the time that I should take to put to the equation of motion?

Thank you very much
 
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(ii) Both are initially 5m above ground. what would be height of one if other is moved to ground. keep in mind that string is inextensible.

(iii) impulse is change in momentum i.e. dP
but even i don't know what "speed with which the system is jerked into motion" means
 
cupid.callin said:
(ii) Both are initially 5m above ground. what would be height of one if other is moved to ground. keep in mind that string is inextensible.

10 m?
(iii) impulse is change in momentum i.e. dP
but even i don't know what "speed with which the system is jerked into motion" means


This question confused me. Can anyone please interpret what the question means?

Thank you very much
 

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