Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
In an accelerating vessel, the effective gravity is \(g_{\rm eff} = g + a_0\). Upthrust \(= \rho_w V (g+a_0)\), weight \(= \rho_{\rm block} V (g+a_0)\). Net upward acceleration of block relative to vessel.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Block acceleration in ground frame:
\[
a_{\rm block} = \frac{\rho_w(g+a_0) - \rho_{\rm block}(g+a_0)}{\rho_{\rm block}} = (g+a_0)\left(\frac{\rho_w}{\rho_{\rm block}}-1\right) = \frac{3g}{2}(2-1) = \frac{3g}{2}
\]
Relative acceleration \(= a_{\rm block} - a_0 = 3g/2 - g/2 = g = 10\) m/s\(^2\). Wait, relative to vessel: \(a_r = 3g/2 - g/2 = g\). Hmm, let me redo: net acc of block \(= 2g - g = g\) (upward) in ground frame. Relative to vessel (acc \(g/2\) upward): \(a_r = g - g/2 = g/2\). Using \(s = \frac{1}{2}a_r t^2\): \(1.2 = \frac{1}{2}\times\frac{3g}{2}\times t^2 \Rightarrow t = \sqrt{0.4/5} = 0.4\) s.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Time \(= 0.4\) s.