Relating a_{2x} and a_{1x}/a_{1y}

[polymerase]

In this problem, the fact that the length of the string does not change imposes a constraint on relative accelerations of the two blocks. Find a relationship between the x component of the acceleration of block 2, $$a_{2x}$$,and the acceleration of block 1. Pay careful attention to signs.

Express $$a_{2x}$$ in terms of $$a_{1x}$$ and/or $$a_{1y}$$, the components of the acceleration vector of block 1.

(the diagram is included)

 

[Doc Al]

Hint: How must the total accelerations of each block be related?

 

[polymerase]

Hint: How must the total accelerations of each block be related?

Equal?

 

[Doc Al]

Equal?

Exactly!

 

[polymerase]

Exactly!

so...a_2x = a_1y?

 

[Doc Al]

so...a_2x = a_1y?

Nope. Block 2 is on an incline. The magnitude of its total acceleration equals that of the other block, but they travel in different directions (obviously).

(I assume that x & y are horizontal and vertical. If x means parallel to the plane, then you are almost correct.)

 

[polymerase]

Nope. Block 2 is on an incline. The magnitude of its total acceleration equals that of the other block, but they travel in different directions (obviously).

(I assume that x & y are horizontal and vertical.)

...therefore FINAL answer is...a_2x = -a_y1??

 

[Doc Al]

...therefore FINAL answer is...a_2x = -a_y1??

If the x-axis is parallel to the incline for mass 2 and the y-axis is vertical for mass 2: Yes!

 

[polymerase]

If the x-axis is parallel to the incline for mass 2 and the y-axis is vertical for mass 2: Yes!

Yah...thanks for ur help