Problem 5-62 F, accel., and tension - Part 6 - A

Two blocks are connected by a string passing over a pulley. Neglect friction and the rotation of the pulley. If the masses are \(m_1 = 3.7\;kg\) and \(m_2 = 2.7\; kg,\) determine the magnitudes of:

(a) the acceleration of the blocks

(b) the tension in the string.

[Ans. (a) \(5.7 \;m/s^2\) (b) \(15 \;N\)]

Diagram of pulley

Accumulated Solution

\(a_1 = a_2 =a\)

FBD with direction arrows to right

FBD of forces acting on mass

Correct!

\(m_1g - T = m_1a \\ T = m_2a\)

The solution is:

\(m_1g - m_2a = m_1a \\ a = m_1g/(m_1 + m_2) = (3.7g)/(6.4) = 5.7 \;m/s^2\)

and

\(T = 2.7 \times 5.7 = 15 \;N\)

 

You have completed this problem.