Boxes hanging attached to box on shelf

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on a physics problem involving three boxes with masses m1 = 1.5 kg, m2 = 3.5 kg, and m3 = 2.5 kg, connected by strings on a frictionless shelf. The objective is to determine the tension in each string and the acceleration of the system after it is released. The equations used include Ft = m2a and a = m1g / (m1 + m2), which are essential for analyzing the forces and applying Newton's second law to solve the problem.

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Homework Statement


A box of mass m2 = 3.5kg rests on a frictionless horizontal shelf and is attached by strings to boxes of masses m1 = 1.5 kg and m3 = 2.5kg, which hang freely as shown in the figure. The system is initially at rest. After it is released, find A) the tension in each string and B) the acceleration of each box

Homework Equations


Ft = m2a
a = m1g / (m1+m2)

The Attempt at a Solution



Not very sure how to proceed, never done a problem with masses hanging on both sides
 
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Presumably the strings pass over pulleys? (Diagrams are always helpful.)

Analyze the forces on each mass and apply Newton's 2nd law.
 

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