FIGURE 4-4 -Two masses, m₁ and m₂, are connected to each other as shown in Fig. 4-4. Mass m₁ slides without friction on the table surface. Both masses have acceleration of magnitude a as shown. How does the tension in the string compare to the weight, m₂g, of mass m₂? A)The tension is equal to m₂g. B)The tension is larger than m₂g. C)The tension is smaller than m₂g. D)It depends on m₁ being smaller than m₂. E)It depends on m₁ being larger than m₂.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The tension in the string is smaller than m₂g because m₂ is accelerating downward, meaning the net force on m₂ is m₂g - T = m₂a, where T is the tension.

FIGURE 4-4 -Two Masses, M1 and M2, Are Connected to Each Other

FIGURE 4-4 -Two Masses, M₁ and M₂, Are Connected to Each Other