Calculating Tension in a Pulley System at an Angle

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the tension in a pulley system where one of the blocks is positioned at an angle. Participants are trying to understand the dynamics involved in the system, particularly focusing on forces acting on the blocks.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the need for free-body diagrams to analyze the forces acting on each block. Questions are raised regarding the orientation of the slope and the direction of the pulling force. There is also a request for a diagram of the complete setup to clarify the problem.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing guidance on the necessity of visual aids like diagrams and free-body diagrams. Some have pointed out the importance of understanding the direction of forces and components of weight in the equations being used.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of needing to clarify the position of the pulley and the orientation of the slope, which may affect the calculations. The original poster's initial equation and assumptions are also under scrutiny.

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Homework Statement
A 1.7kg book B2 is connected by a rope and pulley to a 6.3kg book B1.
We neglect friction.
B2 is on a horizontal surface, and B1 is on a 36.1º slope.
If the force pulling B1 is 28.2N what is the tension between the two books?
Relevant Equations
T=gm
Hi!
I really can't figure this one out...
I have a = (F-cos(36.1)g) = a and from that I get T = mB1 a = 6.3 (20.3736) = 128 N.
Could someone please help?
Thanks!
 
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You need two equations that you get by drawing two free-body diagrams, one for each block. Is the slope above or below the horizontal? Is the pulling force parallel to the surface on which B2 slides? Please post a diagram.
 
Last edited:
Where is the pulley? Please show a picture of the complete setup as was given to you.
 
Screen Shot 2021-09-28 at 7.06.33 PM.png
 
Thank you for the drawing. There is tension T acting on B2 in a direction opposite to F, no? Ideal pulleys change the direction of the force but not its magnitude. Also, check the components of the weight in your equation for B2.
 

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