10 Particles \(P\) and \(Q\), of masses 3 kg and 5 kg respectively, are attached to the ends of a light inextensible string. The string passes over a smooth fixed pulley. The system is held at rest with the string taut. The hanging parts of the string are vertical and \(P\) and \(Q\) are above a horizontal plane (see diagram).
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- Find the tension in the string immediately after the particles are released.
After descending \(2.5 \mathrm {~m} , Q\) strikes the plane and is immediately brought to rest. It is given that \(P\) does not reach the pulley in the subsequent motion.
- Find the distance travelled by \(P\) between the instant when \(Q\) strikes the plane and the instant when the string becomes taut again.