Two masses connected by a pulley with a frictionless table

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a physics problem involving two masses connected by a pulley on a frictionless table. The equations of motion are established for both masses, leading to the acceleration formula a = (m2g) / (m1 + m2). Given the masses m1 = 6.03 kg and m2 = 4.68 kg, the tension in the system is calculated as T = 25.8225 N, and the acceleration is determined to be a = 4.2823 m/s². The calculations are confirmed to be correct by participants in the forum.

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  • Concept of tension in a pulley system
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AHinkle
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Homework Statement


physics.jpg



Homework Equations


m1
\SigmaFy=N-m1g = 0
\SigmaFx=T=m1a
(Because there's no friction i see no opposing force to T)

m2
\SigmaFy=m2g-T=m2a
\SigmaFx=0


The Attempt at a Solution



m2g-T=m2a
T=m1a

(m1+m2)a=m2g-T+T
I notice that the T's cancel when i add the equations together
so it becomes

(m1+m2)a=m2g
so...
a=(m2g)/(m1+m2)

so...
T=m1a
T=(m1) (m2g)/(m1+m2)

m1=6.03kg
m2=4.68kg

T=(6.03Kg)((4.68Kg)(9.8)/(6.03Kg+4.68Kg))
so...
T=25.8225N

T=m1a
25.8225N = (6.03Kg)a

a=4.2823 m/s2
did i do this right?
 
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AHinkle said:
m2g-T=m2a
T=m1a

(m1+m2)a=m2g-T+T
I notice that the T's cancel when i add the equations together
so it becomes

(m1+m2)a=m2g
so...
a=(m2g)/(m1+m2)
You know, you could have just plugged the numbers in here and saved yourself some work. :smile:
a=4.2823 m/s2
'Looks right to me. :approve:
 

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