Find Min Force for Window Washer: Ma = F + 2T_1 - Mg

  • Thread starter Thread starter clarineterr
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Force Window
Join the discussion
Registration is free. Start your own thread to ask a follow-up.
1 reply · 49K views
clarineterr
Messages
12
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


A window washer of mass M is sitting on a platform suspended by a system of cables and pulleys as shown . He is pulling on the cable with a force of magnitude F. The cables and pulleys are ideal (massless and frictionless), and the platform has negligible mass.Find the magnitude of the minimum force F that allows the window washer to move upward.
Express your answer in terms of the mass M and the magnitude of the acceleration due to gravity g.
MFS_1l_18_001.jpg



Homework Equations



Newton's second Law

The Attempt at a Solution



For the person: Ma = F + T -Mg where T is the tension in the cable holding the platform and F is the force of the rope on the washer.

Then from the lower washer T = 2T[tex]_{1}[/tex], where T[tex]_{1}[/tex] is the tension in the rope

So Ma = F + 2T[tex]_{1}[/tex] - Mg

The block is about to move so Ma = 0 and I think T[tex]_{1}[/tex]=F so then

0 = 3F - Mg

I am not sure about this though
 
Physics news on Phys.org