Force Systems Multiple Choice Thread

[RoboNerd]

Homework Statement

http://gpschools.schoolwires.net/cms/lib05/MI01000971/Centricity/Domain/272/Chapter%205%20MC%2013.pdf
It is problem 22 on page 7 of the document:

A block of mass M₁ on a horizontal table is connected to a hanging block of mass M₂ by a string that passes over a pulley, as shown. The acceleration of the blocks is 0.6g. Assume that the friction and the mass of the string are negligible.

22. The ratio of masses M₂ / M₁ is
(A)0.67
(B) 1.0
(C) 1.4
(D)1.5
(E) 1.6

[Note: Post edited by moderator to include the problem statement content in-post]

Homework Equations

F=ma

The Attempt at a Solution

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OK. I know that this is a force system, and I would draw the free body diagrams for each and write out the equations for each block and solve. So I was able to get the tension T in the string to be 0.4 M2 * g. I was also able to get a=0.6 g. My numbers so far are correct.

However, I am at a loss for finding the ratio of masses M2/M1. Could anyone help me, please? Thanks?

 

[PhanthomJay]

Since you have found the tension as a function of M2, substitute that value for T in your equation that you determined from your free body analysis of M1.

 

[RoboNerd]

Thanks for that hint! I solved it!