Solve Tension Problem: A Sledge w/ Bricks & Coefficient of Kinetic Friction

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a sledge loaded with bricks being pulled at a constant speed on a horizontal surface, with a focus on determining the tension in the rope that is inclined at an angle. The context includes concepts from dynamics and friction.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster expresses uncertainty about how to begin solving for tension and seeks assistance. Some participants suggest analyzing the forces acting on the sledge, while others question the interpretation of these forces and their sum.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants attempting to clarify the problem setup and the forces involved. There is a focus on understanding the implications of constant speed and the relationship between the forces acting on the sledge.

Contextual Notes

Participants are grappling with the concept of drawing free-body diagrams and the implications of a net force of zero due to constant speed. There is a lack of consensus on the initial steps to take in analyzing the problem.

mrrocketknigh
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Here's the problem: A sledge loaded with bricks has a total mass of 18.0 kg and is pulled at constant speed by a rope inclined at 20.0(degrees) above the horizontal. The sledge moves a distance of 20.0m on a horizontal suface. The coefficient of kinetic friction between the sledge and surface is 0.500. (a) What is the tension of the rope?


I don't know how to even start this problem, or how to find out what the tension is. Can anybody help me?
 
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welcome to pf!

hi mrrocketknigh! welcome to pf! :wink:

if the speed is constant, then the acceleration is zero, so Ftotal = ma tells us that Ftotal = 0

so draw all the forces on the sledge, and get them to add to zero …

what do you get? :smile:​
 
What do you mean by "draw all the forces on the sledge and get them to add to zero"? I'm lost.
 
Last edited:


Wait... is it 0? I tried doing it myself this whole time, but to no avial...
 
mrrocketknigh said:
What do you mean by "draw all the forces on the sledge and get them to add to zero"? I'm lost.

draw a diagram of the sledge, then draw all the forces on it …

what are they?​
 

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