2 non-rectangular blocks, friction, only gravity

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a physics problem involving two non-rectangular blocks affected by gravity and friction. The key equations utilized include the force balance equations for both blocks, specifically ΣFyA = mA*aA and ΣFxA = 0 for block A, and similar equations for block B. The user attempts to derive the relationship between the accelerations of the blocks using trigonometric identities and friction coefficients. The main conclusion is that the user is seeking validation of their approach and calculations, particularly regarding the angles and forces involved in the system.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Familiarity with trigonometric functions and their applications in physics
  • Knowledge of friction coefficients and their role in force calculations
  • Ability to set up and solve simultaneous equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the principles of static and kinetic friction in physics
  • Study the application of Newton's second law in multi-body systems
  • Learn about the use of trigonometry in resolving forces in inclined planes
  • Explore advanced problem-solving techniques for dynamics involving multiple objects
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and dynamics, as well as educators looking for examples of force analysis in multi-body systems.

trogtothedor
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Homework Statement



An attachment with the problem specifications, HW6 - C, is attached. Here is a link in case that is easier to view.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/54849943@N04/5082480364/

agravity = 32.2 ft/s2

Homework Equations


[tex]\Sigma[/tex]FyA = mA*aA
[tex]\Sigma[/tex]FxA = 0
[tex]\Sigma[/tex]FyB= 0
[tex]\Sigma[/tex]FxB= mB * aB


The Attempt at a Solution


FA on B = FB on A

Writing my force equations, I get:
[tex]\Sigma[/tex]FyA = mA*aA = Ffriction,wall+ Ffriction,B on Asin(70) + FB on A*sin(20)

[tex]\Sigma[/tex]FxA = 0 = Fwall + F friction, B on A*cos(70) - F B on A*cos(20)

[tex]\Sigma[/tex]FyB = 0 = N - 100 -FA on B *sin(20) - Ffriction, A on B *sin(70)

[tex]\Sigma[/tex]FyB = mB * aB = FA on B *cos(20) - F friction, ground - F friction, A on B* cos(70)

Also, to simplify,

Ffriction,wall = Fwall * [tex]\mu[/tex]k

Ffriction, ground = N* [tex]\mu[/tex]k

For both cases, Ffriction, A on B = FA on B* [tex]\mu[/tex]k

Also, since both blocks start from rest, 1 foot = (1/2) * aA * (t2)

Using trigonometry, I also concluded that when block A moves one foot down, block B will have moved 1/tan(70) feet to the right. Thus:

t2 = 2/(aA) = 2/(aB * tan(70))

Am I wrong in any of this? Either something here is wrong, or my algebra is going haywire throughout the solving process.

Thank you in advance for any assistance!
 

Attachments

  • HW6 - C.jpg
    HW6 - C.jpg
    19.5 KB · Views: 459
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I anyone can see any area where I've made a mistake, I'd appreciate it! I feel like I covered everything and have all the angles right, but I'm still coming up with the wrong answer.
 
I got it. In my coorrdinate system, acceleration A is negative, so -aA=aBtan(70)
 

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