How Does Net Torque Affect Pulley Acceleration in an Atwood Machine?

AI Thread Summary
Net torque in an Atwood machine is essential for pulley rotation, arising from differing tension forces on either side of the pulley. The upward acceleration of mass 1 indicates that the tension T1 must be greater than the weight of mass 1, while T2 must be less than the weight of mass 2. Understanding which mass corresponds to T1 and T2 is crucial for analyzing the system. A free-body diagram can help visualize the forces and clarify the direction of acceleration for the pulley. Ultimately, the relationship between net torque and tension differences determines the acceleration of the pulley.
solarcat
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Homework Statement
There is a massive pulley that can rotate that has two masses (mass 1 on the left is less than mass 2 on the right). The system starts at rest and the masses have potential energy. Will the tension force be greater on the right side or left side?
Relevant Equations
Torque = Force*Distance
Net Torque on Pulley = Moment of Inertia of Pulley * Angular Acceleration of Pulley
A net torque is required to make the pull rotate, so this can only occur if the tension forces differ. I know mass 1 will accelerate upwards and mass 2 will accelerate downwards, so T1>mAg and T2<mBg. But I don't know where to go from there.
 
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I don't know which is A and which is B, but the idea is ok. Make a drawing and make free-body diagrans
 
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solarcat said:
A net torque is required to make the pull rotate, so this can only occur if the tension forces differ
Right, so what is the net torque? Which way will the pulley accelerate?
(I don't see how mpg is relevant.)
 

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