A clasic mechanics problom with a moving table

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a system of masses on a frictionless table, where a cube of mass M is connected to another mass m2 via a cord, with an additional mass m1 on top of the cube. The scenario describes the displacement of the cube as mass m2 descends from a height H. Participants are exploring the dynamics of the system and the relationships between the masses.

Discussion Character

  • Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the equations of motion for the system and attempt to derive the displacement of the cube. There are questions about the assumptions made regarding the motion of the masses and the effects of the pulley system. Some participants suggest reconsidering the relationships between the accelerations of the masses.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants offering insights into the mechanics involved. Some have pointed out potential mistakes in the original poster's reasoning, particularly regarding the assumptions about the acceleration and tension in the system. There is a focus on clarifying the dynamics of the pulley and the motion of the masses.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the problem assumes a frictionless environment and raises questions about the behavior of the pulley and the string, indicating that these factors may influence the calculations. There is also mention of the center of mass of the system and its implications for the motion described.

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Homework Statement



"On a horizontal table without friction it's a cube of mass M=70 kg and on the cube it's a body of mass m1=1kg. The body m1 it's conected by a cord with an other body of mass m2=4 kg, situated at height H=1,5 m above the table. The sistem starts from 0 velocity. What it's the displacement of the cube M by the time when the body m2 touches the table(fig. 1.5.13)?(there is no friction)"

I attached the figure.

Homework Equations



T=m1*a1
T=M*a
G2-T=m2*a2 (G is weight)
a1=a2

The Attempt at a Solution



M*a=m1*a1

h=(a1*t^2)/2
d=(a*t^2)/2
h/d=a1/a=M/m1

d=h*m1/M
But at solutions in the book says d=h*m1/(m1+m2+M).

So, can someone explain me my mistake? And also I'll be very happy if someone can give me a tip for solving the problem using the momentum.
 

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anachin6000 said:

Homework Statement



"On a horizontal table without friction it's a cube of mass M=70 kg and on the cube it's a body of mass m1=1kg. The body m1 it's conected by a cord with an other body of mass m2=4 kg, situated at height H=1,5 m above the table. The sistem starts from 0 velocity. What it's the displacement of the cube M by the time when the body m2 touches the table(fig. 1.5.13)?(there is no friction)"

I attached the figure.

Homework Equations



T=m1*a1
T=M*a
G2-T=m2*a2 (G is weight)
a1=a2

The Attempt at a Solution



M*a=m1*a1

h=(a1*t^2)/2
d=(a*t^2)/2
h/d=a1/a=M/m1

d=h*m1/M
But at solutions in the book says d=h*m1/(m1+m2+M).

So, can someone explain me my mistake? And also I'll be very happy if someone can give me a tip for solving the problem using the momentum.

I would first note that one is apparently supposed to assume that the 4 kg mass (m2) slides down the side of cube M on massless, frictionless rails and does not sway to the side like a pendulum as cube M is pushed to one side by the force of the pulley.

What is the velocity (in the horizontal direction) of the center of mass of all three masses taken together prior to the start of the problem? What is this velocity after the end? Does this velocity change during the problem?

What does this say about the position of the center of mass during the problem?
 
Thank you!
 
Two mistakes.

T=M*a isn't right because the string sways

a1=a2 isn't right either because the pulley is not fixed.
 

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