Two masses `m_1=5kg` and `m_2=4.8kg` tied to a string are hanging over a light frictionless pulley. What is the acceleration of the masses when left free to move?

Options

A. `5 m//s^(2)`
B. `9.8 m//s^(2)`
C. `0.2 m//s^(2)`
D. `4.8 m//s^(2)`

Answer

C

Explanation

`a = (m_(1) - m_(2))/(m_(1) + m_(2)) g = ((5 - 4.8)/(5 + 4.8)) 9.8 = 0.2 m//s^(2)`