Two blocks with masses M1 and M2 hang one under the other. For this problem, take the positive direction to be upward, and use g for the magnitude of the free-fall acceleration. A. Find T2, the tension in the lower rope. B. Find T1, the tension in the upper rope. C. Find T2, the tension in the lower rope. D Find T1, the tension in the upper rope.

A.

B.

Explanation:

Since the only forces acting on the blocks are the tensions and the weights (both in the vertical direction), and the system has acceleration zero, we can write the equilibrium equations for M₁ and M₂ as:

From the second equation, we get:

,

Which is the answer to the part A.

Next, we substitute this result in the first equation and obtain:

,

Which is the answer to the part B.