A slightly complex pully problem missing the final step

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on resolving a complex pulley problem involving two masses, M1 and M2, and their respective tensions T1 and T2. Key equations derived include A1 = 2g(2M1 - M2)/(4M1 + M2) and A2 = g(M2 - 2M1)/(4M1 + M2). The main point of confusion arises from the relationship To = T1 + T2 = 2T, which the participants debate in the context of the forces acting on the system. The suggestion to perform a force balance on the massless pulleys is highlighted as a potential solution to clarify the tension relationships.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Familiarity with tension in pulley systems
  • Knowledge of force balance equations
  • Basic algebra for manipulating equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of tension in pulley systems
  • Learn about force balance techniques in mechanics
  • Explore the concept of massless pulleys and their implications
  • Review examples of complex pulley problems for practical understanding
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in physics, engineering, or mechanics who are dealing with pulley systems and tension analysis. This discussion is particularly beneficial for those looking to deepen their understanding of force dynamics in mechanical systems.

Rubberduck2005
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Homework Statement
We have a pully system matching the figure find the tension To using the fact that To=T1 +T2 = T2
Relevant Equations
A1 and A2 are defined to be downward
pulley image.png

so I have already done most the work in finding the following things M1A1=M1g-T1, M2A2=M2g-T2 T2=2T1 M2A2=M2g-T2 and then through further working out(use of the invariance of length of L1 and L2 the strings attached to M1 and M2 then finding A1=-2A2) A1=2g(2M1-M2)/(4M1+M2) and A2=g(M2-2M1)/(4M1+M2) Now my main ambiguity comes from the questions suggestion of the fact that To=T1+T2=2T I am not sure how this can be true can someone give me some advice please
 
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The weight of m1 + m2 is supported by two anchors to the ceiling; therefore, there is no reason for To to hold all that weight by itself.
 
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Lnewqban To=T2-T1+2T1 ? is what I see in the figure
 
if I worked out T2+T1 would this be correct?
 
or is it To=m2g+m1g-T1 as the pulley need support the two masses but the tension from the other rope takes some of that load off Lnewqban Delta2
 
Why don’t you do a force balance on each of the two massless pullies and see what you get?
 
sorry this is null I was reading the wrong figure
 

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