Blocks connected on a table - find acceleration and tension

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves three blocks connected on a table with a coefficient of kinetic friction, requiring the determination of acceleration and tension in the cords. The setup includes frictionless pulleys and a rough table surface.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to establish relationships between forces and accelerations, questioning whether all blocks accelerate equally. Some participants provide feedback on the equations presented and discuss potential errors in calculations.

Discussion Status

Participants are engaged in verifying the original poster's equations and calculations. There is acknowledgment of the possibility of differing accelerations, prompting further exploration of the problem's assumptions.

Contextual Notes

There is a hint in the problem suggesting that the accelerations may not be equal, which is a point of contention among participants. The discussion reflects uncertainty regarding the implications of this hint on the solution approach.

blackboy
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Homework Statement


Blocks.jpg

Three blocks are connected on a table as shown in Figure P5.50. The table is rough and has a coefficient of kinetic friction of 0.350. The pulleys are frictionless.

Determine the magnitude of acceleration of each block.

Determine the tension in the two cords.


Homework Equations


F=ma


The Attempt at a Solution


I was thinking that everything accelerates the same magnitude. If so
4g-T1=4a
T1-T2-f=a
T2-2g=2a

Then solving I get a=2.31, T1=29.96, T2=24.32.
I am not sure if this is the right answer, because the problem hints that the accelerations aren't equal. If they aren't equal, can someone show me how to do this?
 
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I didn't check your arithmetic, but your equations are fine. (Everything accelerates together.)
 


Looks like a typo for T2. It's close to, but not exactly 24.32 N.
 


24.22N. Sorry.
 


Looks good to me! :smile:
 

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