Question involving 2 pulleys and 2 masses.

  • Thread starter putongren
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Pulleys
In summary, the magnitude of the acceleration of block m1 is a, and the magnitude of the acceleration of block m2 is 2a. This is due to the pulley system, where the top string adds string and the lower string subtracts string, resulting in mass2 moving twice the distance of mass1. As distance is related to acceleration and time, the acceleration is also twice as much for mass2.
  • #1
putongren
125
1
upload_2016-2-17_3-48-52.png






1. Homework Statement
If the magnitude of the acceleration of block m1 is a, what is the magnitude of the acceleration of block m2?

Homework Equations


None.

The Attempt at a Solution


The answer is 2a. Is it because the top string of the right pulley is adding string, while simultaneously, the lower string is subtracting string while the right pulley goes left pulling mass2? The motion is constrained by the pulley. The result would cause the mass2 to go twice the distance than mass 1. Since distance is related to acceleration, acceleration is twice as well.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
your explanation is very good however I would add that distance is related to acceleration and time, and the time for each mass to move its respective distance is the same.
 

Related to Question involving 2 pulleys and 2 masses.

1. How do pulleys affect the motion of objects?

Pulleys are used to change the direction of a force and can also be used to increase or decrease the amount of force needed to move an object. In a system with two pulleys and two masses, the pulleys will distribute the weight of the masses evenly, resulting in a more balanced and efficient movement.

2. What is the purpose of having two pulleys in a system?

Having two pulleys allows for a more complex system in which the direction and amount of force can be manipulated. It also allows for a more evenly distributed weight, making it easier to move larger objects with less effort.

3. What is the difference between a fixed and a movable pulley?

A fixed pulley is attached to a stationary object, while a movable pulley is attached to the object being moved. In a system with two pulleys and two masses, both pulleys are typically movable, allowing for greater control over the movement of the objects.

4. How does the mass of the objects affect the motion in a system with two pulleys?

The mass of the objects will determine the amount of force needed to move them in a system with two pulleys. Heavier objects will require more force to move, while lighter objects will require less force. The pulleys help to distribute the weight of the objects, making it easier to move them.

5. Can the direction of motion be changed in a system with two pulleys and two masses?

Yes, the direction of motion can be changed in a system with two pulleys and two masses by adjusting the placement and direction of the pulleys. This is one of the advantages of using pulleys in a system, as it allows for more flexibility in movement.

Similar threads

3 pulley problem with attached masses
Replies
15
Views
3K
Olympiad dynamics problem with 3 masses and a pulley
Replies
17
Views
2K
Using Effective Mass to find the accelerations of 3 masses connected by pulleys
Replies
25
Views
2K
Accelerating pulleys (3 pulleys and 3 masses)
Replies
5
Views
1K
Ideal Vs Real Mass Pulley system
Replies
10
Views
3K
Tension in a string which connects 3 pulleys
Replies
12
Views
341
What's my mistake in this problem in dynamics involving pulleys?
2
Replies
35
Views
2K
Acceleration of rising mass and tension in cord
Replies
33
Views
2K
Calculating tensions and acceleration
Replies
10
Views
2K
Angular Acceleration and Linear Acceleration of a Pulley
Replies
4
Views
1K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top