Tension acceleration train problem

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SUMMARY

The tension acceleration problem involves calculating the pull on the last car of a two-car train system. The last car has a mass of 850 kg and experiences a friction force of 680 N, while the second car has a mass of 1700 kg, and the engine has a mass of 6000 kg with a pull of 1000 N. The correct approach involves first calculating the total mass of the system and then applying Newton's second law to find the acceleration. The friction force must be subtracted from the tension to accurately determine the pull on the last car.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's second law (F=ma)
  • Basic knowledge of forces and friction
  • Ability to perform calculations involving mass and acceleration
  • Familiarity with tension in a multi-body system
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate the total mass of the train system using the formula: total mass = mass of engine + mass of first car + mass of last car.
  • Learn how to apply Newton's second law to multi-body systems.
  • Study the effects of friction on tension in mechanical systems.
  • Explore examples of tension calculations in physics problems.
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, mechanical engineers, and anyone interested in understanding tension and acceleration in multi-body systems.

cheez
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Find the pull in Newtons on the last car of this train. There are two cars. The last car has a mass of 850kg and friction (brakes) of 680N. The other car has a mass of 1700kg. the engine has a mass of 6000kg and a pull of 1000N
Let T1 be the pull on the last car of the train
I tried to solve this problem by calculate the acceleration first. I used this equation F=ma a=F/M = (1000N)/(6000kg+850kg+1700kg)
And then I used T1-f = ma T
1-680n = 850kg x a from the above answer

But I didn't get the answer. Can anyone point out my mistake? thanks so much!
 
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Think about the physics of the problem. Would friction add to or subtract from the pull on the last car?
 

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