Solving a Block and Inclined Plane Problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a physics problem involving a wedge and two connected blocks. The wedge has a mass of 3.45 kg, while the blocks have masses of 1.3 kg and 1.5 kg, respectively. The wedge is placed on a smooth horizontal surface with a base length of 2 meters and an inclination angle of 37 degrees. Key calculations include determining the velocity of the wedge when the block m2 reaches the bottom and the velocity of m2 at that instant, along with the tension in the thread during the motion.

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  • Understanding of Newton's laws of motion
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  • Concept of tension in strings and pulleys
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konichiwa2x
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Hi,

Can someone please expain how to do this problem? I have spent about an hour today on this can and still can't figure it out.

In the arrangement shown in the figure, a wedge of mass [tex]m_{3} = 3.45kg[/tex] is placed on a smooth horizontal surface. A small and light pulley is connected on its top edge. Two blocks having mass [tex]m_{1} = 1.3[/tex] and [tex]m_{2} = 1.5kg[/tex] are connected at the ends of the thread. [tex]m_{1}[/tex] is on a smooth horizontal surface and [tex]m_{2}[/tex] rests on inclined surface of the wedge. Base length of wedge is 2m and inclination is 37 degrees. [tex]m_{2}[/tex] is initially near the top edge of the wedge. All surfaces are smooth, g = 9.8m/s2.

http://img76.imageshack.us/img76/4812/lomyw4.png

If the whole system is released from rest, calculate

a) the velocity of the wedge when m2 reaches its bottom.
b) velcoity of m2 at that instant and tension in the thread during motion of m2.

Please help.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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Start with a free body diagram for each block. The tension in the string is uniform, and the blocks move the same distance.
 

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