Atwood's Machine

Definition

An Atwood's machine is a simple mechanical device that consists of two masses connected by a string or rope that passes over a pulley. It is used to study the effects of gravitational forces on the motion of objects.

Related terms

Tension:

The pulling force exerted by the string or rope in an Atwood's machine.

Acceleration:

The rate at which the velocity of an object changes over time in an Atwood's machine.

Equilibrium:

When the net force acting on an object in an Atwood's machine is zero, resulting in no acceleration.