\includegraphics{figure_4}
A particle \(P\) of mass \(0.5\text{ kg}\) is projected along a smooth horizontal surface towards a fixed point \(A\). Initially \(P\) is at a point \(O\) on the surface, and after projection, \(P\) has a displacement from \(O\) of \(x\text{ m}\) and velocity \(v\text{ m s}^{-1}\). The particle \(P\) is connected to \(A\) by a light elastic string of natural length \(0.8\text{ m}\) and modulus of elasticity \(16\text{ N}\). The distance \(OA\) is \(1.6\text{ m}\) (see diagram). The motion of \(P\) is resisted by a force of magnitude \(24x^2\text{ N}\).
- Show that \(v\frac{\text{d}v}{\text{d}x} = 32 - 40x - 48x^2\) while \(P\) is in motion and the string is stretched. [3]
The maximum value of \(v\) is \(4.5\).
- Find the initial value of \(v\). [5]