Now, you have two equations, but how many unknown quantities?

Is there any way you can reduce the number of unknown quantities to 2? If so, then you can solve the problem: it is possible to find the solution for 2 equations with only 2 unknowns.

Ask me for a hint if you need one.

Write down the two equations with two unknowns:

Okay, solve the 2 equations for 2 unknowns, and determine the acceleration of mass M1. Your answer should look something like

                                 some stuff
                a1  =   g  *  ( ------------- )
                                 other stuff

If we use M1 = 155 grams, and M2 = 150 grams, calculate the acceleration of the mass M1.


    a1  =    g * (        )     =             m/s^2

How long should it take the block M1 to fall a distance of 1 meter?


    t   =              seconds