9709 P43 - Nov 2015 - Q4
3938
Particles A and B, of masses 0.35 kg and 0.15 kg respectively, are attached to the ends of a light inextensible string which passes over a fixed smooth pulley. The system is at rest with B held on the horizontal floor, the string taut and its straight parts vertical. A is at a height of 1.6 m above the floor (see diagram). B is released and the system begins to move; B does not reach the pulley. Find
- the acceleration of the particles and the tension in the string before A reaches the floor,
- the greatest height above the floor reached by B.
