- #1
Edward_C
- 12
- 1
I would be very grateful for help with deriving the following equation...
"A smooth fixed plane is inclined at 30 degrees to the horizontal. A wedge of mass M and angle 30 degrees is held on the surface so that its upper face is horizontal, and a particle of mass m rests on this face. The system is released from rest. Show that the resultant acceleration of the particle is:
(M + m)g / 4M + m
"
I do not understand how to derive this equation. Right now, I can only envisage the particle adding to the wedge's overall weight, and thereby increasing the normal reaction of the surface and consequently the wedge's acceleration down the slope. It seems to me that the acceleration of the wedge and particle should be the same.
Any solution or assistance would be most gratefully received
"A smooth fixed plane is inclined at 30 degrees to the horizontal. A wedge of mass M and angle 30 degrees is held on the surface so that its upper face is horizontal, and a particle of mass m rests on this face. The system is released from rest. Show that the resultant acceleration of the particle is:
(M + m)g / 4M + m
"
I do not understand how to derive this equation. Right now, I can only envisage the particle adding to the wedge's overall weight, and thereby increasing the normal reaction of the surface and consequently the wedge's acceleration down the slope. It seems to me that the acceleration of the wedge and particle should be the same.
Any solution or assistance would be most gratefully received