Physic Labs

Problem 1

Masses m1=2m_1=2 kg and m2=3m_2=3 kg hang from the ends of a light inextensible string passing over a fixed frictionless pulley of negligible radius. The system is released from rest and the string remains taut. Take g=10g=10 m/s2^2 and choose each mass's direction of motion as positive. (a) Determine the direction and acceleration of each mass. (b) Find the string tension. (c) Find their speed after moving s=0.80s=0.80 m from rest, and check it by energy conservation.
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m2>m1⇒m2 descend,m1 monte;a1=a2=am_2>m_1\Rightarrow m_2\text{ descend},\quad m_1\text{ monte};\quad a_1=a_2=a
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The heavier mass m2m_2 descends and lifts m1m_1. An inextensible string gives equal acceleration magnitudes, and the ideal pulley gives equal tension in both segments.