Question

two masses m1 = 4.70 kg and m2 which has a mass 50.0% that of m1, are attached to a cord of negligible mass which passes over a frictionless pulley also of negligible mass. If m1 and m2 start from rest, after they have each traveled a distance h = 2.90 m, use energy content to determine the following.

(a) speed v of the masses

(b) magnitude of the tension T in the cord

Answer 1

To solve this problem you have to know about Potential energy and Kinetic energy

Step 1.

Definition:

Kinetic energy: Kinetic energy is an expression of the fact that a moving object can do work on whatever strikes ; quantifies the amount of work that the object might take as a result of their movement.

Potential energy: Potential energy is energy that results from the position or shape of the object. An object can have the ability to perform work as a result of its position in a gravitational field (gravitational potential energy).

Step 2.

ANSWERS:

a).- speed v of the masses

You can use the energy conservation

How both masess start of the rest we have the following

this is the same speed of the mass two.

b).-magnitude of the tension T in the cord

We go calculate the work done by mass 2

the mass 2 don't have potencial and kinetic energy initial, then we have the following

Ok, now remember that definition of work is force by distance, then we have the following

If you haev any question please let me know in the comments