Question

Calculate the acceleration of either blocks (each of mass, $m$) and tension in the string shown in figure. The pulley and the string are light and all surface are smooth.

Answer 1

Let the acceleration of each block be $a$ and tension in the rope be $T$.

Horizontal motion : $T=ma$ ..........(1)

Vertical motion : $ma=mg-T$

$\therefore$ $ma=mg-ma$ $⟹a=\frac{g}{2}$

From (1) we get $T=m\times \frac{g}{2}=\frac{mg}{2}$