Consider an Atwood machine with m₂ m₁and a pulley of mass M. The tension in the string holding mass m₂ is A) larger than the tension in the string holding mass m₁. B) smaller than the tension in the string holding mass m₁. C) equal to the tension in the string holding mass m₁. D) unknown; more information is needed to work out the answer.

Question

Consider an Atwood machine with m₂> m₁and a pulley of mass M. The tension in the string holding mass m₂ is A) larger than the tension in the string holding mass m₁. B) smaller than the tension in the string holding mass m₁. C) equal to the tension in the string holding mass m₁. D) unknown; more information is needed to work out the answer.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The tension in the string holding the larger mass (m2) is greater because the system accelerates under the influence of the net force caused by the difference in the two masses. This results in a higher tension on the side of the larger mass to support its greater weight and acceleration.

Consider an Atwood Machine with M2 > M1 and a Pulley

Consider an Atwood Machine with M₂> M₁and a Pulley