A mass M1 slides on a 45º
inclined plane of height H as shown. It is connected by a flexible cord of
negligible mass over a small pulley (neglect its mass) to an equal mass M2
hanging vertically as shown. The length of the cord is such that the masses can
be held at rest both at height H/2. The dimensions of the masses and the pulley
are negligible compared to H. At time t = 0 the two masses are released.
(a) For t > 0 calculate the vertical acceleration of M2
(b) Which mass will move downward? At what time will it
strike the ground?
(c) If the mass in (b) stops when it hits the ground, but the
other mass keeps moving, show whether or not it will strike the pulley.
Answer :