Finding Tension of String Connecting Two Blocks on a Flat Surface

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the tension in a string connecting two blocks on a smooth inclined plane at a 30.0° angle. Block A has a mass of 5.0 kg, while Block B has a mass of 10.0 kg. The calculated acceleration of the system is 4.9 m/s², derived from the net forces acting on the blocks. The tension in the string was determined to be zero, indicating that the forces acting on Block A and Block B are balanced under the given conditions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's second law (ƩF = m(a))
  • Knowledge of free body diagrams for analyzing forces
  • Familiarity with trigonometric functions, specifically sine
  • Basic concepts of inclined planes in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the effects of friction on inclined planes in physics problems
  • Learn about tension in strings and pulleys in dynamic systems
  • Explore advanced applications of Newton's laws in multi-body systems
  • Investigate the role of angles in force decomposition on inclined surfaces
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and dynamics, as well as educators seeking to clarify concepts related to forces on inclined planes.

Stormi1018
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Homework Statement


Two blocks mA= 5.0 g and mB= 10.0kg are connected to a string. Both blocks sit on a smooth inclined surface where the angle on the inclined plane is 30.0°. Block A is about block B on the incline. Find the acceleration of the system of two blocks. What is the tension TB in the string.


Homework Equations


ƩF=m(a)
Fa= mA(g) sin θ
Fb= mBsinθ


The Attempt at a Solution


I used an archived thread to attempt to solve this problem, I got the tension to be 0.

Mass block A= 5.0kg
Mass block B= 10.0 kg
mg of block A= 49 N
mg of block B= 98 kg

Fa= mg of block A (sin30°) = 24.5 N
Fb= mg of block B (sin 30°)= 49 N
First I found the acceleration of the blocks as a whole using the equation ƩFa=m(acceleration of a) : a = 73.5N/15.0kg, so I found acceleration to be 4.9 m/s^2.

Then I drew separate free body diagrams for each block to solve for the tension.

Block A Tension = T+ƩFA=ma(acceleration)
I found the tension to be zero.
I used the same equation for block B except I subtracted the tension from the force because the tension is acting in a negative x direction.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
what do you mean by
"Block A is about block B on the incline". please type the problem in original and with figure if there is any...is the string attached to a pulley or the wall ?
 

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