How Does Tension Affect Motion on a Frictionless Surface?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the motion of a box with a mass of 10 kg on a frictionless surface when subjected to a tension force of T = 75 ˆx + 25 ˆz N. The magnitude of the tension is determined to be 79 N. Despite the weight of the box being 98 N, the box accelerates due to the horizontal tension force. By applying Newton's second law, participants successfully calculated the acceleration and subsequent velocity of the box after 0.05 seconds.

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  • Basic grasp of kinematics and motion equations
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics, as well as educators looking for practical examples of tension and motion on frictionless surfaces.

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Homework Statement


A box of mass M=10 kg is at rest on a frictionless level surface (like an ideally smooth ice
rink). A rope tied to the box is pulled horizontally, such that the tension in the rope is
T = 75 ˆx + 25 ˆz N, where both the x-axis and the z-axis are parallel to the floor. What is the speed of the box after 0.05 seconds?

Homework Equations


Magnitude of T = (75^2 + 25^2)^(1/2) = 79 N
weight of box = 10 kg * 9.8 m/s^2 = 98 N

The Attempt at a Solution


Because the weight of the box is greater than the tension force, the box should not move, right?
 
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The weight of the box is balanced by the normal reaction of the surface.
Using Newton's second law find the acceleration and then the velocity.
 
I got it! Thanks so much! That ended up being much easier than I was making it!
 

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