Two bodies of masses 10 kg and 20 kg respectively kept on a smooth horizontal surface are tied to the ends of a light string A horizontal force F = 600 N is applied to (i) A and (ii) B along the direction of string. What is the tension in the string in each case ?

Explanation

Acceleration = 600 N / 10 kg + 20 kg = 20 `ms^(-2)`
(i) When force is applied on 10 kg mass
600 - T = `10 xx 20` or
T = 400 N
(ii) When force is applied on 20 kg mass,
600 - T = `20 xx 20` or T = 200 N