Acceleration of connected bodies (a = F/(m₁ + m₂))
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a = F/(m₁ + m₂)
What each symbol means
| Symbol | What it stands for |
|---|---|
| F | Net external force on the system (N) |
| a | Common acceleration of the system (m/s²) |
| m₁ | Mass of first body (kg) |
| m₂ | Mass of second body (kg) |
When to use this
Two bodies connected via string or contact, moving together with same acceleration. Contact force: F₁₂ = m₂a = m₂F/(m₁+m₂). Extends to N bodies: a = F/Σmᵢ.