Atwood machine probolem: Apply Lagrangian equations

In summary, the problem involves a uniform circular pulley of mass 2m that can rotate freely about its axis of symmetry. Two masses, m and 3m, are connected by a massless string passing over the pulley without slipping. The system undergoes planar motion with the masses moving vertically. The rotation angle of the pulley is taken as the generalized coordinate, and the Lagrangian equation is obtained to deduce the upward acceleration. The Lagrangian is constructed using the kinetic and potential energy, and the Euler-Lagrange equations are used to find the acceleration.
  • #1
pentazoid
146
0

Homework Statement



A uniform circular pulley of mass 2m can rotate freely about its axis of symmetry which is fixed in a horizontal position. Two masses m, 3m are connected by a massless string which passes over the pulley without slipping. The whole system undergoes planar motion with the masses moving vertically . Take the rotation angle of the pulley as generilesed coordinate and obtain Lagrange's equation for the mtoion. deduced upward acceleration.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



3Mdv/dt=3Mg-T

Mdv/dt=T-Mg

deltaH=a*delta(theta)

v_c=v-a*omega

Sigma=T*dr=0

r x Mg(-y-hat)=0

pulley is frictionless.

Seems like the only thing I should do would be to find T which would help me find the acceletion for M.
 
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  • #2
pentazoid said:

Homework Statement



A uniform circular pulley of mass 2m can rotate freely about its axis of symmetry which is fixed in a horizontal position. Two masses m, 3m are connected by a massless string which passes over the pulley without slipping. The whole system undergoes planar motion with the masses moving vertically . Take the rotation angle of the pulley as generilesed coordinate and obtain Lagrange's equation for the mtoion. deduced upward acceleration.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



3Mdv/dt=3Mg-T

Mdv/dt=T-Mg

deltaH=a*delta(theta)

v_c=v-a*omega

Sigma=T*dr=0

r x Mg(-y-hat)=0

pulley is frictionless.

Seems like the only thing I should do would be to find T which would help me find the acceletion for M.

Shouldn't you be constructing the Lagrangian which is given by

[tex] L = T - V [/tex]

where T is the kinetic energy and V is the potential energy and from this you calculate the Euler-Lagrange equations?
 

1. What is the Atwood machine problem?

The Atwood machine problem is a classic physics problem that involves two masses connected by a string passing over a pulley. The goal is to determine the acceleration and tension in the string as the masses move.

2. How do you apply Lagrangian equations to solve the Atwood machine problem?

Lagrangian equations are a set of equations used to describe the motion of a system in terms of its potential and kinetic energy. In the Atwood machine problem, the Lagrangian equation is used to find the equations of motion for the masses and the tension in the string.

3. What are the assumptions made in solving the Atwood machine problem using Lagrangian equations?

The main assumptions in solving the Atwood machine problem using Lagrangian equations are that the string is massless and inextensible, the pulley is frictionless, and there is no air resistance. These assumptions allow for a simplified and more accurate solution to the problem.

4. Can the Atwood machine problem be solved using other methods besides Lagrangian equations?

Yes, the Atwood machine problem can also be solved using Newton's laws of motion or conservation of energy. However, Lagrangian equations provide a more elegant and systematic approach to solving the problem.

5. Are there any real-life applications of the Atwood machine problem?

Yes, the Atwood machine problem has many real-life applications, such as in elevators, cranes, and weightlifting machines. It is also used in the study of pulleys and simple machines.

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