# How is the block accelerating horizontally?

Immediately after release, Block B would have some acceleration in the downward direction. Using constraint equations, we can easily prove that there would be an equal acceleration in Block A in the horizontal direction.

We have the following equations for the two blocks

Block A: T=Ma in the horizontal direction

Block B: mg-T=ma in the vertical direction

On solving, we have a=mg/(m+M)

But, wouldn't the block B also have horizontal acceleration? If Block A moves in the horizontal direction, wouldn't Block B also move with the same acceleration in this direction. But, if this is the case, what force is acting on the block in that direction? It cannot be a reaction force between the blocks as that would further push Block B away from A.

If Block B does not accelerate in the horizontal direction, how would the system behave after some time? (i.e. some instants after the release of the system) Would the distance between the blocks increase? I don't think that should happen. But, if that is not the case, what makes Block B move in the horizontal direction?

Note by Deepani Agarwal
4 years, 1 month ago

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I got this.

- 4 years ago