Three masses are connected by a string.

M1 = 1.0kg
M2 = 2.0kg
M3 = 3.0kg
Mass one and two are on a table while mass three hangs off the edge of the table (there is a pulley). Find the tension in the string connecting m1 and m2. Assume the table is frictionless and the masses move freely. Find the tension in the string connecting m2 and m3.

1 answer

force down on m3 = m3 * g = 29.4 N

F = m a

29.4 = (1+2+3) a

a = 29.4/6 m/s^2

tension between m1 and m2 = m1 a = 1 a

m3 g - Tension up on m3 = m3 a

tension between m1 and m2 = m1 a