- #1
Mongster
- 20
- 7
Homework Statement
Consider the systems of 2kg and 5kg blocks. The 2kg block is resting upon a smooth frictionless horizontal surface and friction in pulley bearing is negligible. The 5kg block is suspended by a cord connected to the 2kg block. Determine the acceleration of system and tension of cord.
Homework Equations
F=ma
F=mg
The Attempt at a Solution
To find acceleration of system, I understand that I will have to get the external forces divided by the total mass of system.
F=ma
| a. system | = F. ext / m
a = [5(9.81) - 2(a)] / 5+2
a = (49.05 - 2a) / 7
7a = 49.05 - 2a
a = 5.45 m/s^2
My answer above is incorrect although it appears to be logical to me. The correct answer for acceleration of system is 7m/s^2. I haven't attempted the second part of the qn. Anyone please enlighten me on what went wrong in my approach to this question