Simple beginning physics, mindfart

  • Thread starter Thread starter Jake4
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Beginning Physics
AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on a physics problem involving three blocks connected by pulleys, where the challenge lies in calculating the acceleration of the system. The user is struggling with the forces acting on the central block, particularly how to incorporate tension and friction into their calculations. They have created free-body diagrams but are confused about the different tensions on either side of the middle block. A response suggests that in a single massless string, the tension remains constant, which can simplify the analysis of forces along the x-axis. Understanding this concept is crucial for solving the problem effectively.
Jake4
Messages
111
Reaction score
1

Homework Statement



2 blocks are suspended on the sides of a table, over pulleys, connected to a central block on the table. From the left to the right, the masses are 4kg, 2kg and 6kg. There is a friction coefficient of 0.12 on the middle block. Find the acceleration.



Homework Equations



F=ma, of course


The Attempt at a Solution



For some reason, I'm having trouble with the center block. I have drawn free-body diagrams for each object, and at the center, I'm having trouble with determining the x-axis forces.

I have marked friction in the opposite direction of the acceleration, but can't seem to figure out how to factor in Tension, as there should be tension on both sides of the object.

This, I know is a very simple thing, but for some strange reason, I'm hung up on it.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Show your equations. Do not forget that there are different tensions in the ropes at the opposite sides of the middle block.

ehild
 
In a single massless string, tension is same. Use it to get forces in x axis
 

Thread 'Errors and significant figures'

I multiplied the values first without the error limit. Got 19.38. rounded it off to 2 significant figures since the given data has 2 significant figures. So = 19. For error I used the above formula. It comes out about 1.48. Now my question is. Should I write the answer as 19±1.5 (rounding 1.48 to 2 significant figures) OR should I write it as 19±1. So in short, should the error have same number of significant figures as the mean value or should it have the same number of decimal places as...
View full post »
Thread 'A cylinder connected to a hanging mass'

Thread 'A cylinder connected to a hanging mass'

Let's declare that for the cylinder, mass = M = 10 kg Radius = R = 4 m For the wall and the floor, Friction coeff = ##\mu## = 0.5 For the hanging mass, mass = m = 11 kg First, we divide the force according to their respective plane (x and y thing, correct me if I'm wrong) and according to which, cylinder or the hanging mass, they're working on. Force on the hanging mass $$mg - T = ma$$ Force(Cylinder) on y $$N_f + f_w - Mg = 0$$ Force(Cylinder) on x $$T + f_f - N_w = Ma$$ There's also...
View full post »

Similar threads

Find the mass of a block on an inclined pulley
Replies
3
Views
2K
Object causing another object to move with zero friction
Replies
3
Views
2K
How is tension in a string affected by moment of inertia?
Replies
2
Views
4K
The Physics of Frictionless Blocks
Replies
3
Views
6K
Acceleration and Tension in a Pulley System
Replies
9
Views
6K
Finding when acceleration is zero
Replies
1
Views
2K
Force applied on the pulley of a system
Replies
8
Views
3K
What Force Keeps the Block from Sliding on a Frictionless Inclined Ramp?
Replies
10
Views
2K
Dynamics of a Block on top of a slab with friction between them
Replies
33
Views
1K
How do I calculate the velocity of a two-ended rocket?
Replies
38
Views
7K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top