2 A particle \(P\) of mass 0.5 kg is attached to one end of a light elastic string with modulus of elasticity 24 N and natural length 0.6 m . The other end of the string is attached to a fixed point \(A\). The particle \(P\) hangs in equilibrium vertically below \(A\).

1. Find the distance \(A P\). The particle \(P\) is raised to \(A\) and released from rest.
2. Calculate the greatest speed of \(P\) in the subsequent motion.