Calculate the Acceleration of Two Blocks Connected by A String | Half Atwood Machine

Two blocks are connected by a light string which runs over a massless, frictionless pulley. One block rests on a level, frictionless surface and the other block hangs from the string. Both blocks are released from rest. Solve for the acceleration of the blocks as well as the tension in the connecting string.

MORE COMPLICATED VARIANTS OF THIS PROBLEM:

This problem is a variant on the Atwood Machine (or Atwood's Machine)

The solution to this physics problem involves the application of Newton's 2nd Law and Free Body Diagrams to each object to generate a system of equations that can be used to derive the acceleration of system.

This problem typically appears in high physics courses as well as AP Physics. Mastering this problem is key to understanding the more complicated versions of this problem that are essential in understanding how to get a 5 on the AP Physics Exam.

[krissy_n]

Someone tell me why this video has not blown up

[PD]

The acceleration is = (The force that gives the movement / Total mass set in motion) Isn't it easier to just write it down directly?