- #1
eprparadox
- 138
- 2
Homework Statement
[/B]
A light rope passes over a light frictionless pulley attached to the ceiling. An object with a large mass is tied to one end and an object with a smaller mass is tied to the other end. Starting from rest the heavier object moves downward and the lighter object moves upward with the same magnitude acceleration. Which of the following statements is true for the system consisting of the two masses?
A. The center of mass remains at rest.
B. The net external force is zero.
C. The velocity of the center of mass is a constant.
D. The acceleration of the center of mass is g, downward.
E. None of the above statements are true.
Homework Equations
The Attempt at a Solution
The answer is E for this question, but I'm stuck on justifying choice B.
In particular, I want to be able to draw out the forces on this system of two masses. I don't know how to account for the tension in the rope on both sides and gravity.
I think I have trouble in general when talking about "system" like this and drawing out the forces. Any thoughts on how to draw out this force diagram?