Pulley question- What have I done wrong here?

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SUMMARY

The discussion revolves around a physics problem involving two blocks connected by a string, where the user incorrectly calculates the acceleration of a 5kg block. The user applies the equations F=ma and frictional force calculations but fails to account for the tension in the string and the net forces acting on both blocks. The correct acceleration is 5.23 m/s², significantly different from the user's calculation of 15.68 m/s². Additionally, the user struggles with part (b) of the problem, which requires further analysis of energy, yielding an answer of 3.29J.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Knowledge of frictional forces and coefficients (μk)
  • Ability to draw and interpret free body diagrams
  • Familiarity with basic kinematic equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the concept of tension in strings and its effect on connected bodies
  • Learn how to draw and analyze free body diagrams for multi-body systems
  • Study energy conservation principles in physics, particularly in relation to work done
  • Practice similar problems involving friction and tension to solidify understanding
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics, as well as educators looking for examples of common mistakes in problem-solving related to forces and motion.

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Homework Statement


http://imgur.com/ymNWTOV
Image isn't working, here is the question:
http://imgur.com/ymNWTOV

Homework Equations


F=ma
Weight force=mg
Frictional force=μkN

The Attempt at a Solution


So for part (a):[/B]
Force on 10kg block=mg=10x9.8=98N
This is equal to the tension force in the string, which is pulling the 5kg block right

Frictional force on the 5kg block (pulling it left):
F=μkN
=0.4*(mg)
=0.4*9.8*5
=19.6N

Therefore the net force on the block is 98-19.6=78.4N
F=ma
Therefore accelaration(5kg block)=F/m=78.4/5
This gave me 15.68m/s2, while the answer was actually 5.23...

Part b
I have no clue how to do this part! Answer is 3.29J...
 
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Mayzu said:

Homework Statement


http://imgur.com/ymNWTOV
Image isn't working, here is the question:
http://imgur.com/ymNWTOV

Homework Equations


F=ma
Weight force=mg
Frictional force=μkN

The Attempt at a Solution


So for part (a):[/B]
Force on 10kg block=mg=10x9.8=98N
This is equal to the tension force in the string, which is pulling the 5kg block right
No. This is incorrect. Have you drawn a free body diagram on the 10 kg block? Do you feel that you have advanced beyond the point where you need to draw free body diagrams? Let T represent the tension in the string. What is the net force acting on the 10 kg block?

Chet
 

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