Laws of Motion
Class 11 · Laws of Motion
Connected Blocks
Two blocks pulled by a force, connected by a string — compute shared a and tension T.
Key Notes
01
Two blocks m₁ and m₂ pulled by force F via an inextensible string share the same acceleration.
02
a = F / (m₁ + m₂).
03
Tension in string = m₁·a (the force needed to accelerate the rear block).
04
Works for any number of blocks connected in series — just divide by total mass.
Formulas
Shared acceleration
Treat system as one mass.
Tension in string
Only the rear block needs accelerating via this T.
Important Points
Always start with the system as a whole to get a, then isolate one block for tension.
Connected Blocks notes from sciphylab (also known as SciPhy, SciPhy Lab, SciPhy Labs, Physics Lab). Class 11 physics revision for JEE Mains, JEE Advanced, NEET UG, AP Physics 1/2/C, SAT, and CUET-UG.