Finding the tension in a pulley that rotates

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    Pulley Tension
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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the tensions T_1, T_2, and T_3 in a rotating pulley system where mass m_2 is greater than mass m_1. The participant correctly identifies that when the pulley rotates, the system is no longer in equilibrium, and thus Newton's Second Law must be applied to account for the net acceleration. The established equations for static conditions (T_1 = m_1g, T_2 = m_2g, and T_3 = m_1g + m_2g) are modified to incorporate the effects of acceleration due to the rotation of the pulley.

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Homework Statement


pulley_zps70f8d0bc.png

m_2>m_1
The pulley rotates.
Find the tensions, T_1, T_2, T_3

Homework Equations


Newton's laws


The Attempt at a Solution


I know how to solve the problem if the pulley doesn't rotate because the systems would be in equilibrium (Newton's first law) and dividing into 3 systems (one for each tension) you get T_1=m_1g, T_2=m_2g and T_3=m_1g+m_2g.

But I have no idea what changes when the pulley starts rotating. Can somebody give me some leads?
 
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Well if the pulley starts rotating it will do so in such a way so that m2 will start falling because it is more massive. The only difference here is that when you do Newtons Second Law on the system, there will be a net acceleration.
 

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