How Do You Calculate Tension and Angular Acceleration in a Pulley System?

AI Thread Summary
To calculate the tension and angular acceleration in a pulley system with two masses, begin by drawing free-body diagrams for each mass. The net force on each mass will help determine the tension in the rope, while the torque on the pulley, derived from the tensions, will allow for the calculation of angular acceleration. Use the equation τ = Iα, where τ is the net torque, I is the moment of inertia, and α is the angular acceleration. The relationship between linear and angular quantities will also be crucial, as the linear acceleration of the masses is related to the angular acceleration of the pulley through the radius. Properly setting up the equations based on these principles will lead to the solution for tension and angular acceleration.
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Homework Statement



Two rocks, with masses m1 and m2, are attached to the opposite ends of a rope that runs around the inner radius r of a pulley with moment of inertia I

m1 = 10 kg
m2 = 50kg
I = 60 kg*m^2
r = 1 m

I have to determine Tension for both masses and the angular acceleration of the pulley.

I am aware that moment of inertia is equivalent to mass in linear dynamics, but I don't know how to set up the problem. Any help pointing me in the right direction would be appreciated.
 
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Start by drawing the free-body diagram for each body.
 
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