Mass of M2 in kg: Solve Mass/Tension Problem

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a mass and tension problem involving two weights, M1 and M2, connected by cables with specified tensions and angles. The scenario is set in a static equilibrium context where the forces acting on the weights must balance out.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the need to analyze the forces acting on the weights, including tension components and gravitational forces. There are attempts to establish equilibrium conditions, with some participants questioning how to utilize the given tensions and angles effectively.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with participants exploring different aspects of the problem. Some guidance has been offered regarding the use of free body diagrams and the balance of forces, but there is no explicit consensus on the next steps or the resolution of the problem.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the system is not accelerating, which implies that the sum of forces must equal zero. There is also a mention of needing to find the mass of M2, indicating a specific focus on this variable within the broader problem context.

missyjane
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A left-hand cable has a tension T1 and makes an angle of 49 with the horizontal. The right-hand cable has a tension T3 and makes an angle of 51 with the horizontal. A weight M1 is on the left and a weight M2 is on the right. A cable connecting the two weights has a tension 32N and is horizontal. The acceleration due to gravity is 9.8 m/s^2. What is the mass of M2 in kg?

I have no clue where to even start. Help please! :cry:
 
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Well, as the system isn't accelerating, the resultant of forces must equal 0.
 
:confused: I'm still lost
 
Draw a freebody diagram for each body, and then do a sum of forces. Remember to consider the weight of the bodies.
 
That's what I'm trying to find though...the mass of the second weight.
 
Ok, I know I have to find T1 using the given angle and that T2=32N...but how does that information help me?
 
missyjane said:
Ok, I know I have to find T1 using the given angle and that T2=32N...but how does that information help me?

If I am visualizing this correctly, the tension T1 has components to the left and up. These are balanced by T2 to the right, and the weight of the mass (m1 * g) downward. Nothing is accelerating, so the sum of all these forces is zero.

I will give you the horizontal equation, to get you started. The horizontal component of T1 is T1 cos 49. So you have T2 - T1 cos 49 = 0. If you solve this, you will have the value of T1. You can then use this in the vertical forces to get the value of the mass.

You proceed the same way on the right side, to get the tension T3 and the mass M2.
 

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