Two blocks each of mass m = 4.10 kg are fastened to the top of an elevator as in the figure below.

Question

(a) If the elevator accelerates upward at 1.6 m/s2, find the tensions T1 and T2 in the upper and lower strings.

(b) If the strings can withstand a maximum tension of 96.0 N, what maximum acceleration can the elevator have before the first string breaks?

Answer 1

I will be happy to critique your thinking.

Answer 2

Consider, T1 - T2 - mg = ma
Also, T2 - mg = ma

Then,

T1 = 2ma + 2mg
&
T2= mg + ma

so,

T1 = 93.48 N
&
T2 = 46.74 N

Now to find max acc using given Tension Force 96. Set equation 1 using T1 as 96 and now find a.
your answer should equal a = 1.90 m/s2

Enjoyyy...