Solve Friction & Pulley Problem: Acceleration of Blocks

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SUMMARY

The problem involves calculating the acceleration of two blocks connected by a rope over a pulley, with a 20 kg block hanging vertically and a 30 kg block on a 53° incline. The correct acceleration is determined to be 0.0688 m/sec², factoring in a coefficient of friction (µ) of 0.2. The solution requires applying Newton's second law (F=ma) and the frictional force equation (Fk = N*µk). A common error in solving this problem is misidentifying the masses and gravitational force in the equations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's second law (F=ma)
  • Knowledge of frictional forces and coefficients (Fk = N*µk)
  • Basic trigonometry for incline angles
  • Ability to set up and solve equations involving multiple masses
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the principles of Newton's laws of motion
  • Study the effects of friction on inclined planes
  • Learn how to analyze systems with pulleys and multiple masses
  • Practice solving problems involving acceleration and forces in two dimensions
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics, as well as educators looking for examples of problem-solving in dynamics involving pulleys and friction.

metallica007
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Hello everyone... I need ur help in the following problem

Homework Statement


A perfect rope connects a 20 kg block to a 30 kg block. The rope passes over a perfect
pulley at the top of a 53 ° incline. The 30 kg block rests on the incline and the 20 kg
block hangs from the pulley. The blocks start from rest. Calculate the acceleration of
either block. (µ = 0.2)

Homework Equations


F=ma
Fk= N*uk

The Attempt at a Solution


http://img832.imageshack.us/img832/1134/26881976.jpg

the correct answer is is 0.0688 m/sec^2
Please help me to find the error in my solution
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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You had the correct approach and equations...but then you seemed to have reversed your m1, m2, g, and a terms. Recheck your math. Sometimes it is better to plug in the numbers right away up front, to avoid the messy algebra. But don't tell the math folks i said that:wink:
 

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