Problem 5-62 F, accel., and tension

Two blocks are connected by a string passing over a pulley. Neglect friction and the rotation of the pulley. If the masses are m1=3.7kg and m2=2.7kg, determine the magnitudes of:

(a) the acceleration of the blocks

(b) the tension in the string.

[Ans. (a) 5.7m/s2   (b) 15N]

Diagram of pulley


The accelerations of the blocks 1 and 2 are:

(A)   equal

(B)   a1>a2

(C)   a1<a2