nitam24
Oct 16, 2012, 04:04 PM
An object (m1) hanging from a string that's wrapped around a pulley with another object (m2) on the opposite end of the string hanging down.
M1 is .75kg
M2 is .05kg
Find the acceleration and tension in the string.
PLEASE HELP ME!
ebaines
Oct 17, 2012, 07:51 AM
Draw a sketch, and treat the two masses as a system, and apply \Sigma F = ma. The sum of forces is equal to the weight on one side being counteracted partially by the weight on the other, so the sum is W2-W1. The mass of the system is m1+ m2. So now calculate the acceleration. For the tension in the cable it's equal to the weight of the object (doesn't matter which one you choose) + ma for that mass, but remember that acceleration is positive for the lesser mass (as it accelerates upward), and negative for the heavier mass (since it accelerates downward). Post back with your attempt at this and we'll help if needed.