Atwood machine

Definition

The Atwood machine is a simple mechanical device that consists of two masses connected by a string or rope passing over a pulley. It is used to study the concepts of tension, acceleration, and equilibrium in a system.

Related terms

Tension:

The force transmitted through a string, cable, or any type of flexible connector when it is pulled at both ends.

Equilibrium:

A state in which all forces acting on an object cancel out, resulting in zero net force and no acceleration.

Newton's Second Law:

States that the acceleration of an object is directly proportional to the net force acting on it and inversely proportional to its mass.