Two blocks (m₁ = 4.0 kg on a table, m₂ = 2.0 kg hanging over a pulley) are connected by a string. Assuming the table is frictionless, what is the acceleration of the system? Use g = 9.8 m/s².
A3.27 m/s²
B4.9 m/s²
C9.8 m/s²
D1.63 m/s²
Explanation
📌 Only m₂ experiences gravity as the accelerating force. The full system has mass m₁ + m₂ = 6.0 kg. Net force = m₂g = 2.0 × 9.8 = 19.6 N. a = 19.6/6.0 = 3.27 m/s². Distractor B ignored m₁; C used g directly; D used half correct value.