Need help calculating the tension in the string of two boxes with friction

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SUMMARY

The discussion revolves around calculating the tension in a cord connecting two boxes, where Box A has a mass of 5.0 kg and Box B has a mass of 2.0 kg, with a coefficient of kinetic friction of 0.20. The acceleration of the system is determined to be 1.4 m/s². The correct equations for tension are established as m1g - T = m1a and T - fk = m2a, where m1 is the mass of Box A and m2 is the mass of Box B. The correct tension in the cord is confirmed to be 17 N after correcting the mass assignments.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's second law (F=ma)
  • Knowledge of frictional forces (fk=mu*Fn)
  • Basic principles of pulley systems
  • Ability to solve simultaneous equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the concepts of tension in pulley systems
  • Study the effects of friction on motion in physics
  • Learn how to derive equations of motion for connected objects
  • Practice solving problems involving multiple masses and forces
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics, as well as educators looking for examples of tension and friction in real-world applications.

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Homework Statement



Two boxes are connected by a cord running over a pulley. Box A sits on a table and has a mass of 5.0 kg while box B hangs
freely and has a mass of 2.0 kg. Box A moves to the right and box B moves
downwards. If the coefficient of kinetic friction between box A and the table is
0.20, what is the acceleration of the system and the tension in the cord? You
may assume that the cord remains taut and does not stretch.

Homework Equations


F=ma
fk=mu*Fn


The Attempt at a Solution


The first part is fine i get 1.4m/s2

then the second part to calculate tension I am lost with what to do:

m1g-T=m1a
T-fk=m2a

where m1= 5kg
m2= 2kg

the answer is supposed to be 17N but when i solve for T i don't get anywhere near that...

thanks
 
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You got your m1 and m2 reversed.
 

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