How Is Tension Calculated in a Massless String System?

[mrshappy0]

Homework Statement

A mass m1 = 5.8 kg rests on a frictionless table and connected by a massless string to another mass m2 = 5.2 kg. A force of magnitude F = 30 N pulls m1 to the left a distance d = 0.87 m.
2)How much work is done by the normal force on m1 and m2?

Homework Equations

Δk=W_net

The Attempt at a Solution

I was solving for V final when I realized that tension does work. How can you find the force of tension for this problem without the acceleration? I keep running in circles. Textbooks, etc. don't alleviate the headache. Help!

 

[PeterO]

Homework Statement

A mass m1 = 5.8 kg rests on a frictionless table and connected by a massless string to another mass m2 = 5.2 kg. A force of magnitude F = 30 N pulls m1 to the left a distance d = 0.87 m.
2)How much work is done by the normal force on m1 and m2?

Homework Equations

Δk=W_net

The Attempt at a Solution

I was solving for V final when I realized that tension does work. How can you find the force of tension for this problem without the acceleration? I keep running in circles. Textbooks, etc. don't alleviate the headache. Help!

Is there a part 1 you are solving , but haven't told us about?