Fnet=ma (kind of confusing question )

  • Thread starter Thread starter laddoo12
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Confusing
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a physics problem involving two blocks, A and B, with masses of 10.0 kg and 35.0 kg respectively, subjected to a force of 75.0 N. The surface under block B is frictionless, while the coefficients of static and kinetic friction for block A are μs = 0.34 and μk = 0.17. The user attempted to calculate the acceleration of block B and the tension in the string connecting block A to the wall, but confusion arose regarding the application of static friction in the equations. The correct approach involves using free body diagrams and applying Newton's laws to analyze the forces acting on each block.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Knowledge of free body diagrams
  • Familiarity with static and kinetic friction coefficients
  • Basic algebra for solving equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study free body diagram techniques for multi-body systems
  • Learn about the application of static and kinetic friction in physics problems
  • Review Newton's second law and its application in different scenarios
  • Practice similar physics problems involving tension and friction
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics, as well as educators seeking to clarify concepts related to forces, tension, and friction in multi-body systems.

laddoo12
Messages
3
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


In the diagram below are two blocks. Block A sitting on top of block B has a mass mA = 10.0 kg and is attached to the wall by massless string. Block B, mass mB = 35.0 kg, is pulled by a force F = 75.0 N. The surface under block B is frictionless. The coefficients of friction for block A and B are μs = 0.34 and μk = 0.17.
(a) Determine the acceleration of block B.
(b) Determine the tension in the string.

Homework Equations


Fnet=ma
Ffriction-mg*coefficient friction

The Attempt at a Solution



For the first part i went
fnet=ma
Ft=(m1+m2)a+M*g*μk
75=45a+35*9.8*.17
a=41.68/45
a=.37 m/s^2

Not sure if i am doing this correct, the coefficient of static friction is confusing me, do i need it in this equation?

Part B
Fnet=ma
Ft=Ffriction+Ffstatic
Ft=.37*35*.17+35*.34*9.8
ft=118.82N (seems right not sure)

I am not fully confident in my work an answers can someone tell me if idid this correct, i have no answers unfortunately given to me. Please tell me if i went wrong somewhere or not thank you!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Mass A will stay on top of mass B as long the acceleration less than the static friction + the tension of the spring.
Nothing is said about the spring.
 
The top block cannot accelerate in the direction of the applied force, with respect to the ground, because it is attached to the wall. So your approach is incorrect. You should use free body diagrams for each block and identify the forces acting on each , and apply all of Newton's laws.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
6K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
7K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
4K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
9K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
14K