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 \(m_1 = 3.7\;kg\) 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

The accelerations of the blocks 1 and 2 are:

(A)   \(\text{equal}\)

(B)   \(a_1 > a_2\)

(C)   \(a_1 < a_2\)