Friction of Two Blocks and Rope Problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the minimum force required to prevent Block B (120 lb) from sliding down an inclined plane while Block A (80 lb) is attached to it via a rope. The calculations involve determining the normal forces and frictional forces acting on both blocks using the equations F = fN and N = Wcosθ. The user initially assumed Block B would slide down, leading to a negative force result, indicating a potential misunderstanding of the problem setup or the forces involved. Clarification on the angle between the rope and the wall is necessary for accurate calculations.

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  • Understanding of static and kinetic friction coefficients
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Homework Statement


Two blocks are positioned according to the figure. Block A (80 lb) is attached to a rope as such that it doesn't slide or fall from block B (120lb). Compute the smallest value of Force to be applied on Block B for it to not move parallel to the inclined plane.

frictionproblem.jpg


Homework Equations



F = fN
N = Wcos[tex]\theta[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution



Here's how I did, I assumed that Block B is sliding downwards parallel to the inclined plane.

Then I compute the Frictional force between block A and B, so

W = 80 lb
N = 80cos20
Friction forceA&B = 0.2(80cos20) direction is upwards parallel to inclined plane, because it will resist the downward sliding motion of Block B.

Then compute for Friction force between Block B and plane, so

W = 80 +120 (is this correct?)
N = 200cos20
Friction forceB&plane = 0.2(200cos20) direction same with previous Ff.

Then I compute for the sliding magnitude of Block B, assuming it will slide because of none external force acting on it other than friction

F = 120sin20 (force not applying frictions)
F2 = 120sin20 - (0.2(80cos20) + 0.2(200cos20)) = Answer

I equate F2 as my answer because that's the only force left in the system needed to be countered... so my force needs to be acting upward...

When I substituted all values... it gives me a negative answer force... so does that mean... I'm wrong?
 
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First off, the angle between the rope and wall is not given. If as shown, it increases the normal forces you calculated, and you would need to know that angle. But secondly, it doesn't appear that the lower block can move as shown in the setup, even if the rope was parallel to the incline. Is this problem stated and illustrated correctly?
 

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