Friction and Force problem Help

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a physics problem involving two blocks connected by a rope, with one block on a ramp and the other hanging off the side. The problem includes concepts of forces, friction, and acceleration, specifically focusing on how to set up equations to analyze the system's motion.

Discussion Character

  • Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to derive equations for the net forces acting on both blocks but expresses uncertainty about how to incorporate the tension in the rope and relate the accelerations of the two blocks.
  • Some participants question the setup of the equations, particularly regarding the direction of forces and the role of tension in the analysis.
  • There is a focus on ensuring that the same acceleration magnitude is applied to both blocks due to their connection via the rope.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging in clarifying the setup of the problem. Some guidance has been offered regarding the inclusion of tension in the equations and the importance of a consistent sign convention for acceleration. However, there is still a lack of consensus on how to combine the equations effectively.

Contextual Notes

The original poster notes feeling stuck and indicates a need for assistance in combining the equations and understanding the role of tension. There is also mention of potential missing elements in the equations for Block A.

BlasterV
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Two blocks are connected by a rope. Block A = 8kg, Block B = 5kg

Ramp's angle theta is 22 deg. Kinetic friction = .10

The blocks are held motionless, then released. Block A slides up as Block B falls.

Block A is on the ramp connected by a rope to Block B hanging off the side of the ramp and only has the force of gravity down and the tension force up acting upon it.

Can someone please tell me what I am missing/left out of each part and help me set things up right? Thanks

1. Find Net force of Block A parallel to the ramp
Uk = coeff of kinetic friction

mass A * accel A = -mg sin theta + Uk mg cos theta
mass A * accel A = 8* -9.8 * sin 22 + .1 * 8 * 9.8 * cos 22

2. Find Net force of Block B vertically

mass B * accel B = -mg + Ftension
mass B * accel B = -5 * 9.8 + Ftension

3. You should have two equations with three unknowns: tension in the string, accel_A, and accel_B. The magnitude of the two accelerations should be equal. Figure out if they have the same sign, or opposite signs.

You should now have two equations for two unknowns, the tension in the string and the acceleration of the boxes. Solve for the magnitude of this acceleration.

Check your work: if all is well, then you should be able to solve for the tension in the string using the box A equation. You should also be able to solve for the tension in the string using the box B equation. It should turn out to be the same tension

I am stuck here, I don't know how to combine them and get them the way it wants. Also, Since I should be able to solve for tension in the Box A equation, I must be missing something in the Box A equation.
 
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Bump! Someone please help me with this!
 
BlasterV said:
Bump! Someone please help me with this!

That rope is connected both A and B. You should include the tension of the rope among the forces acting on A. Don't forget that the tension is the same at botes ends of the rope.


ehild
 
Yea but where do I put the Tension on A exactly and how do I make it into two equations with two unknowns? this is my real problem
 
BlasterV said:
1. Find Net force of Block A parallel to the ramp
Uk = coeff of kinetic friction

mass A * accel A = -mg sin theta + Uk mg cos theta
mass A * accel A = 8* -9.8 * sin 22 + .1 * 8 * 9.8 * cos 22
As ehild points out, you left out the force of the string pulling block A. Also, in what direction does the friction act?
2. Find Net force of Block B vertically

mass B * accel B = -mg + Ftension
mass B * accel B = -5 * 9.8 + Ftension

It is important to relate the motion of blocks A and B, since they are connected by the string. They have the same magnitude of acceleration. So, choose a consistent sign convention. If "up the incline" is positive, the the acceleration of block A is +a; If, for block B, "down" is negative, then the acceleration of block B is "-a".
 

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