Problem 1
Two small masses hang from a light inextensible string over a light frictionless pulley. The string remains taut, motion is vertical, and is constant. Take downward for and upward for as positive. (a) Find their common acceleration. (b) Find the tension. (c) Evaluate the acceleration for and check equal masses. Keep the sign convention consistent and use appropriate SI units throughout. Each part builds on intermediate results from the preceding part; apply a physical relation only where the stated model assumptions hold. Finally compare the answers with the initial conditions, expected trends, and an independent check when available.
problems.proof.stepOf
problems.proof.analysis
Solve the algebraic expression and retain the solution consistent with the physical domain. Checking units helps catch algebraic errors.
problems.proof.pitfall. Do not assign different tensions; the ideal light string and pulley give equal tension on both sides.