Chapter 4, Problem 33P

Two blocks, each of mass m = 3.50 kg, are hung from the ceiling of an elevator as in Figure P4.33. (a) If the elevator moves with an upward acceleration $\stackrel{\to }{a}$ of magnitude 1.60 m/s², find the tensions T₁ and T₂ in the upper and lower strings. (b) If the strings can withstand a maximum tension of 85.0 N, what maximum acceleration can the elevator have before a string breaks?

Figure P4.33 Problems 33 and 34.