Calculating Net External Force in a Two-Body System with Gravity

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the net external gravitational force acting on a two-body system consisting of a 2.6kg mass on a frictionless table and a 4.1kg mass hanging off the edge. The acceleration due to gravity is 9.8m/s². The correct approach involves developing equations for both masses, determining the tension in the rope, and using it to find the net external force. The tension values calculated are 40.18N for the hanging mass and 15.592N for the tension in the rope.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's Second Law of Motion
  • Basic knowledge of gravitational force calculations
  • Familiarity with tension in a rope system
  • Ability to create and interpret free-body diagrams
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn how to derive equations of motion for two-body systems
  • Study the concept of tension in connected systems
  • Explore free-body diagram techniques for complex systems
  • Investigate the effects of friction on net external forces
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding dynamics in two-body systems, particularly in the context of gravitational forces and tension calculations.

missyjane
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Mass of 2.6kg lies on a frictionless table, pulled by another mass of 4.1kg under the influence of gravity (mass 4.1kg is hanging off the edge of the table). The acceleration due to gravity is 9.8m/s^2. What is the magnitude of the net external force (gravitational) acting on the two masses?


I thought I'd get the answer by using F=g(m1)(m2), but that was wrong. I don't know where to go from here. :confused:
 
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Try a diagram first, develop and equation for each of the masses. Solve for Tension on the second mass and plug it into first equation. From there solve for g.
 
I figured out that the tension of the hanging force is 40.18 and the tension of the rope is 15.592...where do I go from here?
 

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