Solving for the Mass of M2 in an Equilibrium System?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a system in equilibrium involving two masses connected by a rope, with considerations of tension forces and the effects of an inclined surface. Participants explore the implications of equilibrium on tension values and the relationship between the masses.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss whether the tension forces T1 and T2 are equal in an equilibrium scenario and question the impact of an inclined surface on these tensions. There is also an exploration of the conditions under which the system is considered to be in equilibrium.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with some participants providing clarifications about the assumptions of massless ropes and pulleys. There is an acknowledgment that tension is consistent throughout a single rope, but the overall state of equilibrium is debated.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the potential confusion arising from the diagram used and clarify that the example provided was not the actual homework problem. There is mention of specific values for tension calculated in a related example, but the exact details of the homework problem remain unspecified.

izelkay
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Homework Statement


Let's say that the system in this diagram is in equilibrium:
http://i728.photobucket.com/albums/ww285/izelkays/Picture1.jpg

Since the system's in equilibrium, would that mean that T2 (the tension force connected to M2) is the same as T1 (the tension force connected to M1)?

Also, would it matter if that table M1 is on were inclined at an angle? Wouldn't the tension forces still be the same value if the system were in equilibrium?

The Attempt at a Solution


In my homework problem, (the system's in equilibrium) I've figured out what T1 is. The problem's asking me to find the mass of M2. If the tension forces are the same, wouldn't that mean I just do:

M2*g = T1 and solve for M2?

Homework Statement


Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution

 
Last edited:
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The system is not in equilibrium, there's no force to balance out T going to the right.
 
izelkay said:
Since the system's in equilibrium, would that mean that T2 (the tension force connected to M2) is the same as T1 (the tension force connected to M1)?
Why do you think the system is in equilibrium? There's an acceleration marked in the diagram.

As long as the rope is massless and the pulley is massless and frictionless (which are the usual assumptions), then there is a single tension throughout the rope. Which is why it's label T and not T1 and T2.

What exactly are you given and what are you asked to find?
 
Ok, sorry I wasn't clear. That diagram I posted isn't the actual homework problem. I just wanted to use a general example.

I should have googled my question to find the actual diagram:

http://www.chegg.com/homework-help/questions-and-answers/blocks-connected-string-shown-figure-smooth-inclined-surface-makes-angle-42-degree-horizon-q877944

I've found the tension in the rope connected to the 6.7kg mass to be 43.98N. Would it be the same value for the rope connected to the hanging mass?

Sorry for not being clear.
 
Yes, tension is the same throughout 1 rope.
 
Thank you.
 

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