Need help, mechanics problem with pulleys and tensions

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The discussion revolves around a mechanics problem involving a pulley system with two masses, where the user initially calculated an impossible acceleration for the 4kg mass. The user provided equations for net forces and torques but encountered a contradiction in their results. After reviewing their calculations, they identified an error in the sign of the tension in the equations, which led to the incorrect acceleration value. Correcting this mistake yielded a realistic acceleration of 2.68 m/s² for the 4kg mass. The user expressed gratitude for the assistance in resolving the issue.
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I've already tried this problem but yielded an impossible answer:

Homework Statement



We have a pulley with a mass-less rope attached to two masses hanging off each side of the pulley:
-m1 (4kg), suspended 1m off the ground
-m2 (2kg), on the ground

The mass (M) of the pulley is 2.6 kg
The rotational friction of the pulley is given as .51 Nm
The radius of the pulley is .085

How long will it take for the 4kg mass to hit the ground once the masses are released?

Homework Equations



Moment of inertia (I) = (1/2)(mass)(radius)2
Torque (τ) = (moment of inertia)(angular acceleration)
Angular acceleration (α) = acceleration of point on outside edge of pulley / radius

The Attempt at a Solution



I defined moving the pulley so that m1 falls as "positive" rotation and angular acceleration.

Regarding mass one,
Fnet = m1g + T1 = ma
T1 = m1a - m1g

For mass two,
Fnet = - m2g + T2 = ma
T2 = m2a + m2g

τnet = I α
τ(from tension) - τ(from friction) = ((1/2) M r2) (a / r)
T1r - T2r - .51 = (1/2)(2.6)(r)(a)
T1 - T2 - .51/r = (1/2)(2.6)(a)
m1a - m1g - m2a - m2g = 1.3a
a(m1 - m2 - 1.3) = m1g + m2g
a(4 - 2 - 1.3) = 39.2 + 19.6
a = 84

An acceleration greater than the acceleration due to gravity would be impossible for mass one.

Would any please check what I did wrong? Thank you!
 
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Sleepycoaster said:
Regarding mass one,
Fnet = m1g + T1 = ma
T1 = m1a - m1g
Check the sign of the tension.
 
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-m1a + m1g - m2a - m2g = 1.3a
a(-m1 - m2 - 1.3) = -m1g + m2g
a(-4 - 2 - 1.3) = -39.2 + 19.6
a = 2.68

That was the problem. Thanks!
 
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