Question

Two masses of 6 kg and 4 kg are connected to the
two ends of a light inextensible string that goes
over a frictionless pulley. Find the acceleration of
the masses and the tension in the string when the
masses are released. Take g =10ms
-2​

Answer 1

Explanation:

Since 6kg is heavier than 4 kg so it will accelerate down while 4 kg will accelerate up

So the equation of net force on 6kg is given as

6×10−T=6a

equation of net force on 4kg is given as

T−4×10=4a

now add the above two equations

6×10−(4×10)=(6+4)×a

60 - 40 = 10a

a = 2m/s

2

So 6 kg will accelerate downwards while 4 kg will accelerate upwards

with acceleration 2 m/s

2

now in order to find the tension force

T−4×10=4×2

T = 48N