Recent content by whatname

this more of a concept question not a how to do it question since this is an example problem and the solution with step by step solution is already provided. all I am asking is 1.)why must it be assumed that both masses move down and how can it be done with 1 mass going up and the other down...

Homework Statement this is from an example problem in the hibbler dynamics book 13th edition in the section of work so i don't really have a question on how to do it. the question is why is the problem solved the way it is solved. the system has one pulley.one rope.and two masses at each end...