Question

In an Atwood machine m1 = 2.00 kg and m2 = 6.50 kg. The masses of the pulley and string are negligible by comparison. The pulley turns without friction and the string does not stretch. The lighter object is released with a sharp push that sets it into motion at vi = 2.20 m/s downward.



(a) How far will m1 descend below its initial level?
___________m
(b) Find the velocity of m1 after 1.80 ____________s.

Please explain this as thoroughly as possible! thanks!

Answer 1

I assume m2 is the hanging mass.
the pulling force is m2*g
the pulling masses are M1+m2

Forcepulling=totalmassesmoving*a
now using a,
solve for distance and velocity.