Inclined Plane w/ Two Masses: F=ma+mb?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a physics problem involving two masses connected by a pulley system, with one mass on an inclined plane. The scenario includes a block of mass mA on a frictionless incline and another mass mB hanging vertically, prompting considerations of forces and acceleration.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the necessity of drawing free body diagrams for both masses to analyze the forces acting on them. There is a focus on identifying the tension in the cord and the gravitational forces acting on each mass.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on the need for clarity in the diagrams and the forces involved, particularly emphasizing the importance of the tension force being equal for both masses. There is ongoing exploration of the correct formulation of the equations of motion.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the need for proper definitions of forces and the correct application of equations, indicating that some assumptions about the forces may need to be revisited. There is also mention of missing information regarding the forces acting on the masses.

ksm2288
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Homework Statement


Block of mass mA = 2kg - lying on frictionless inclined plane with a slope of 20 degrees.

connected to mA via frictionless, massless pulley and massless cord... mB = 3kg

http://img152.imageshack.us/img152/8286/imag0103l.jpg

Homework Equations



F= Mass * Acceleration

Acceleration = Mass / Force

The Attempt at a Solution



so far all I can get is the free body diagrams..
would this follow a = Fga + Fgb / ma + mb?

except I don't have force..
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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You have to draw 2 diagrams.
1. Forces exerted on mass#1
2. Forces exerted on mass#2

Make the unknown force as T.
 


I have drawn two diagrams? I attached a picture. So I'm just calculating the tension force?
 


ksm2288 said:

Homework Statement


Block of mass mA = 2kg - lying on frictionless inclined plane with a slope of 20 degrees.

connected to mA via frictionless, massless pulley and massless cord... mB = 3kg

http://img152.imageshack.us/img152/8286/imag0103l.jpg

The normal force N is perpendicular to the slope. It is not vertical.
What do you call Fgma and Fgmb?
You drew only one force exerted to mb. You need to draw the force of gravity, too.
Remember that the tension, the magnitude of the force the cord exerts, is the same on both bodies.

ksm2288 said:

Homework Equations



F= Mass * Acceleration

Acceleration = Mass / Force

The Attempt at a Solution



so far all I can get is the free body diagrams..
would this follow a = Fga + Fgb / ma + mb?

except I don't have force..

The equation is incorrect. You miss a few parentheses.
Explain, what Fga and Fgb are.


ehild
 
Last edited by a moderator:

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