Mechanics 2.12. Pulleys Mathematics resources（2.12力学。）.pdfVIP

Mechanics 2.12. Pulleys mc-web-mech2-12-2009 Various modelling assumptions are used when solving problems involving pulleys. The connecting string is generally taken to be light and inextensible. The pulley is assumed to be smooth and light. WorkedExample1. A light inextensible string passes over a smooth light pulley. At each end of the string there is a particle. Particle B has a mass of 8 kg and particle C has a mass of 2 kg as shown in the diagram. The particles are released from rest with the string taut. Calculate the tension in the string and the acceleration of the masses. Solution It is important to understand that the magnitude of the tension will be the same throughout the string. This is crucial in problems with connected particles. In addition, the acceleration of each particle is of the same magnitude, but in opposite directions. It is usual to consider each of the particles separately and drawing a separate force diagram for each particle can be beneficial. Using Newton’s second law, F = ma, on par- ticle B, in the direction of motion (↓), gives: 8g − T = 8a (1) T T Using Newton’s second law, F = ma, on par- a B C a ticle C, in the direction of motion (↑), gives: 8g T − 2g = 2a (2) 2g The simultaneous equations (1) and (2) can now be solved. From (2): T = 2a + 2g (3) Substituting (3) into (1) gives: 8g − 2a − 2g