Finding an expression for the maximum tension?

Join the discussion
Ask a follow-up here, or get your own question answered by working scientists, mathematicians and engineers — people, not an autocomplete.
Real named experts · corrections over time · the nuance an AI answer skips
1 reply · 3K views
JadeLove
Messages
9
Reaction score
0
A toy cart of mass m1 moves on frictionless wheels as it is pulled by a string under tension T. A block of mass m2 rests on top of that cart. The coefficient of static friction between the cart and block is μ. Find an expression for the maximum tension T that will not cause the block to slide on the cart if the cart is rolled up of angle Ɵ above the horizontal. The string is parallel to the surface on which the cart rolls.

The reason I'm so confused is because I've been given a problem to solve without ANY variables, where do I even start?

I drew a free-body diagram but it doesn't really help... And theoretically, what is my answer supposed to even turn out to be, T = 0? T =1? I mean is the question asking me to work out a process where I get one of those answers :S Help!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Variables that you've been given: m1, m2, T, μ, θ. You can assume that g is there, too; It's generally assumed.

It is fine to provide an answer that is a formula; there need not be a particular numerical answer.