Problem 5-62 F, accel., and tension - 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

Correct!

The accelerations are equal: \(a_1 = a_2 = a\)

The force that accelerates \(m_2\) is:

(A)   \(T\; \text{(the tension in the string)}\)

(B)   \(m_2g \; \text{(the weight of}\; m_2)\)