Relative velocity for moving masses and pulleys

In this simulation the acceleration of mass A is assumed to be up and of B is down. This common acceleration is "a". If the actual acceleration is in the opposite direction to our assumption then a negative answer is produced. Similarly the common acceleration of C and D is "b" and it is assumed that C moves up and D moves down.

Procedure:

  1. Click in the boxes to enter the required masses
  2. Press Apply. Draw the set up in your own copy.
  3. Press Release Mass
  4. Press Answers to find a and b.
  5. Calculate the accelerations yourself and check against the answers calculated in this simulation.

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