Question

A block of mass m1 and weight w1 = m1g moves on a level frictionless surface.
It is connected by a light flexible cord passing over a small frictionless pulley to
a second hanging block of mass m2 and weight w2 = m2g. What is the
acceleration of the system and what is the tension in the string?

Answer 1

The values of acceleration and tension of the system is given below.

Explanation:

Force on m1:

T = m1g x a   ----(1)

Force on m2:

mg - T = m2g x a  ----(2)

Now adding the two equations:

T + mg - T = m1ga + m2ga

mg = m1ga + m2ga

m g = g ( m1a + m2a)

m = m1a + m2a

a =  m / m1 + m2

Now tension in the string:

T = m1g x a ( From 1st equation)

T = m1g x m / m1 + m2

T = m1 x g x m / m1 + m2