Question

Two men of unequal masses hold on to the two sections of a light rope passing over a smooth light pulley. Which of the following are possible?

(a) The lighter man is stationary while the heavier man slides with some acceleration. 

(b) The heavier man is stationary while the lighter man climbs with some acceleration.

(c) The two men slide with the same acceleration in the same direction. 

(d) The two men slide with accelerations of the same magnitude in opposite directions.

Answer 1

Correct Answer is: (a, b, & d)

Let m₁ > m₂, T = tension in rope.

If m₂ is stationary, T = m₂g.

∴ m₁ must slide down with some acceleration.

If m₁ is stationary, T = m₁g.

∴ m₂ must slide up with some acceleration.

If m₂g < T = m₁g, m₁ can move down and m₂ can move up.