Find "x" for Pulley Problem of 5kg & 1kg Masses

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves two masses, 5 kg and 1 kg, on either side of a pulley system, with the heavier mass being doubled. The original poster seeks to find the downward acceleration "x" of the heavier mass when gravitational acceleration is given as g=10 m/s².

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the forces acting on the masses, with one suggesting the use of F = ma for both masses. There is confusion regarding the phrasing of the problem, particularly about the doubling of the heavier mass. Some participants attempt to calculate the forces but seem to misinterpret the application of the equations.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing guidance on the correct application of force equations. There is a lack of consensus on the interpretation of the problem, particularly regarding the doubling of the mass and the role of tension in the system.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating through the definitions of weight and force, with some confusion about how to incorporate tension into their calculations. The original poster expresses urgency for assistance.

jk13
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There are two bodies of mass 5kg and 1 kg on either sides of a pulley. (The string stays vertical and straight at all times). The heavier mass is doubled. The downward acceleration on the string of the hevier mass is "x". Find "x" when g=10m/s-2.
Please help fast!
Desperate!
 
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welcome to pf!

hi jk13! welcome to pf! :smile:

(try using the X2 button just above the Reply box :wink:)
jk13 said:
There are two bodies of mass 5kg and 1 kg on either sides of a pulley. (The string stays vertical and straight at all times). The heavier mass is doubled. The downward acceleration on the string of the hevier mass is "x". Find "x" when g=10m/s-2.

(what do you mean by "The heavier mass is doubled" ? :confused:)

call the tension "T", and do F = ma twice, once for each mass …

show us what you get :smile:​
 


The mass 5 kg is doubled. :p
f=ma
f=5*10=50
f=1*10=10
Correct?
 


Help me please?! :(
 
hi jk13! :smile:
jk13 said:
f=ma
f=5*10=50
f=1*10=10

no, that's weight = mg

you need Ftotal = ma, and you need to include the tension, T, and the acceleration, a
 

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