The discussion centers on the dynamics of a small block sliding on a larger block along a frictionless semi-circular track, specifically analyzing the conditions under which both blocks maintain contact. It is established that the horizontal velocities of the blocks are only equal at point A, where the normal force is horizontal. The small block's velocity must have a component equal to that of the larger block in the normal direction to maintain contact, and this condition is not met at other points along the path. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the constraints imposed by the geometry of the motion and the forces involved.
PREREQUISITESPhysics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of dynamics and motion in constrained systems, particularly in the context of Newton's laws.
They are not, except at point A.sachin said:
The component of the velocities in the normal direction must be equal to maintain contactsachin said:
It is far from clear. But I think that you are confusing velocity with speed, invoking conservation of momentum, adopting a center of momentum frame and forgetting that the two blocks may have different masses.sachin said:
Because the direction “inside the bigger block” is the normal direction, not the x directionsachin said:
yes,its all true,the red arrow has only horizontal and vertical components,has not got any component along the common normal i.e perpendicular to the red one,for the bodies to be in contact the velocities along the common normal should be the same,how the contact still remains ?erobz said:
They are the same. The velocities of both blocks along the common normal is ##0##. The ground is interfering with the sleds ability to translate in the common normal direction. The sled cannot translate in the direction of the orange arrow.sachin said:
erobz said:
yes,its all clear,hope the same relationship holds true for displacement and acceleration also,thanks.erobz said: