Calculate the acceleration and the tension in the rope

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the acceleration and tension in a rope system with two masses, m1 and m2, on frictionless surfaces, using angles theta1 and theta2, and gravitational acceleration g. The setup includes a pulley and a rope that are both massless and frictionless.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss how to find acceleration and tension, with suggestions to isolate blocks and draw free body diagrams (FBDs). There is also mention of using forces parallel to the incline for simplification.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively exploring different methods to approach the problem, including isolating blocks and considering free body diagrams. Some guidance has been provided regarding the relationship between tension and acceleration, but no consensus has been reached on a specific method.

Contextual Notes

Assumptions include the frictionless nature of surfaces and the massless characteristics of the pulley and rope. There is a reference to a diagram that may be relevant for visualizing the problem.

Leo194
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Homework Statement


Calculate the acceleration and the tension in the rope. For your variables use "m1", "m2", "theta1", "theta2" and "g". Assume all surfaces are frictionless, and the pulley and rope are massless and frictionless.



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Homework Equations



Fne=ma, wight=ma

The Attempt at a Solution



((m2sin(theta2)-m1sin(theta1)/((m1+m2))(g)
 
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so, did you have a question about this situation?
 
yes, I am not sure how to find the acceleration and tension.
 
once you know the acceleration,
the Tension can be obtained by isolating
*either one* of the blocks
... "cutting the rope" allows T to be measured.
 
Try to draw the FBD of the two blocks.

Now as the surfaces are friction less

T - m1gsin(theta1) = m1a

and m2gsin(theta2) - T = m2a
 
are you aware that there is an arrow in fed ex? and y don't you try solving it in terms of force parallel? its much easier
 

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