Connected Particles (Leaving Cert Applied Maths): Flashcards

A system of masses joined by inelastic strings via pulleys

Both masses have same magnitude of acceleration

Constant throughout entire system

Light (massless) and inelastic (doesn't stretch)

$mg - T = ma$

$T - mg = ma$

The heavier mass

Analyse each mass separately using $F = ma$

Acceleration ($a$)

Weight ($mg$) downwards and Tension ($T$)

Typically upward positive, downward negative

String is light (massless) and inelastic