Simple Pulley Problem With Acceleration

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around solving a pulley problem involving three blocks with given masses and acceleration. Block B, with a mass of 12.0 kg, is moving to the right with an acceleration of 3.00 m/s², while the coefficient of kinetic friction is 0.25. The user calculates the frictional force and tension but struggles to find the correct mass of block C, initially estimating it at 9.608 kg and later at 14.608 kg, both of which are incorrect. The user realizes the need to account for the gravitational forces of blocks A and C acting on block B but remains confused about the calculations. Ultimately, the user expresses frustration over the complexity of the problem and the lack of relevant textbook guidance.
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Homework Statement


Block A in the figure has a mass of 5.00kg , and block B has mass 12.0kg . The coefficient of kinetic friction between block B and the horizontal surface is 0.25.

YF-05-69.jpg


What is the mass of block C if block B is moving to the right and speeding up with an acceleration 3.00m/s2 ?

Homework Equations



Friction = coefficient * normal force
F = ma

The Attempt at a Solution



I found the frictional force heading left (since block is going right). 0.25 * (12 * 9.81) = 29.43 N
The tension force on B is then just F = ma + friction force, so 12 * 3 + 29.43 = 65.43 N
And the acceleration of block C, which should also be 3 m/s2, gives the equation Ca = Cg - T, since the acceleration downwards is just gravitational force - tension force. So 3C = 9.81C - 65.43, C = 9.608kg

But this is wrong! And I don't know why :(
The textbook sucks too...pulleys aren't even so much as mentioned in the chapter we're in.

Edit: Tried accounting for A.

A is moving up at 3 m/s2.
So -3A = Ag - T
-3(5) = (9.81)(5) - T
T = 34.05 N
So then the total forces pulling left are 34.05 + 29.43 = 63.48N (A and friction). So the forces pulling right must equal that + 36 (F = (12)(3)) = 99.48N. So 3C = 9.81C - 99.48, C = 14.608kg

Still doesn't work :(
 
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Maybe I'm misunderstanding your work, but did you consider that the gravitational force of blocks A and C also act on B?
 
samnorris93 said:
the gravitational force of blocks A
Still doesn't work :(
 
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I don't see where you took into account the tension on the A side.
 
haruspex said:
I don't see where you took into account the tension on the A side.

Yeah, realized that from the other post. Edited my post above, but it still is wrong. I was so hoping it would be right too, since it made so much sense...
 
Ahhhh never mind. I'm just bad at math. :D
 
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