Calculate Acceleration & Tension of a Pulley System

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a pulley system involving three equal masses, with two masses on one side and one on the other. Participants are tasked with calculating the acceleration of the system and the tension in different segments of the pulley.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the application of Newton's 2nd law to analyze the forces acting on the masses. There are attempts to derive the tension values and acceleration, with some questioning the completeness of the calculations.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided values for acceleration and tension, while others are seeking clarification on the calculations and the inclusion of mass in the tension formula. The discussion reflects a mix of agreement on certain values and ongoing inquiry into the reasoning behind them.

Contextual Notes

There is an emphasis on showing work in calculations, and some participants express uncertainty about specific aspects of the problem, particularly regarding the tension between the masses and the role of mass in the equations.

Ciaran
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Homework Statement


Three equal masses are hung from a pulley(2 on one side, 1 on the other). Find the acceleration of the system and the tension between: a) the 2 sides of the pulley and b) between the 2 masses on the same side

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


Got a= g/3, for a) T= 13.3m N and not 100% sure about b)
 
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Ciaran said:
Got a= g/3, for a) T= 13.3m N
Good.

Ciaran said:
and not 100% sure about b)
What do you think? Apply Newton's 2nd law to one of those masses.
 
Is it T= 2g/3 N?
 
Ciaran said:
Is it T= 2g/3 N?
Yes, but you left out the mass.

(It's generally a good policy to show how you arrived at your answer, not just give your answer.)
 

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