Statics Double-Mass Pulley Incline Problem

In summary, the conversation discusses a problem involving a system with two masses connected by a rope and a pulley. The initial attempt to find the equations for the system was incorrect, and the person asks for help in setting up the problem. The tension in the rope is identified as T, and it is stated that the system is static. To find the force on the trolley, the pulley is imagined to be locked and the rope is tied to cleats, resulting in a net force acting on the pulley and trolley. After further analysis, the person is able to solve for the second mass by setting the sum of all forces in the rotated x-direction to zero.
  • #1
physicsman32
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Homework Statement


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Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


I'm having trouble coming up with the equations for the system. At first, I thought that m2 = m1sin(theta), but that's not correct. How can I set this problem up?
 
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  • #2
Let the tension in the rope be T. What must its value be, if the system is static?

To work out the force on the trolley, imagine that, the pulley is locked so that it can't rotate and that instead of going around the pulley, the rope is tied to cleats on the pulley at the two points where it goes from touching to not-touching the pulley. If the tension on both parts of the rope is still T, what will be the net force vector by which the two parts of the rope act on the pulley, and hence on the trolley?
 
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  • #3
Thank you, andrewkirk. After looking at the problem more closely, I saw that the rope tension in the downward direction could be broken down into components along the rotated axes of the incline. Since the tension in the rope is the same everywhere, I was able to solve for m2 by setting the sum of all forces in the rotated x-direction equal to zero.
 

1. What is a statics double-mass pulley incline problem?

A statics double-mass pulley incline problem is a type of mechanics problem that involves calculating the forces and motion of two masses connected by a pulley and placed on an inclined surface. This type of problem is commonly used to test understanding of static equilibrium and the principles of mechanics.

2. How do you approach solving a statics double-mass pulley incline problem?

To solve a statics double-mass pulley incline problem, it is important to first draw a free-body diagram of the system, identifying all the forces acting on the masses. Then, apply the principles of static equilibrium, which state that the sum of all forces and torques acting on a system must equal zero. Finally, use the equations of motion to solve for any unknown quantities.

3. What are the key concepts to understand in order to solve a statics double-mass pulley incline problem?

The key concepts to understand when solving a statics double-mass pulley incline problem include the principles of static equilibrium, vector addition and subtraction, and the equations of motion (Newton's laws of motion). It is also important to have a good understanding of pulley systems and how they affect the motion of the masses.

4. What are some common mistakes to avoid when solving a statics double-mass pulley incline problem?

Some common mistakes to avoid when solving a statics double-mass pulley incline problem include not properly identifying all the forces acting on the masses, using incorrect signs for the forces, and not considering the effects of friction. It is also important to carefully apply the equations of motion and double-check all calculations for accuracy.

5. How can understanding statics double-mass pulley incline problems be useful in real life?

Understanding statics double-mass pulley incline problems can be useful in real life in various engineering and physics applications. For example, it can help in designing and analyzing pulley systems used in elevators or cranes. It can also be used in calculating the forces and motion of objects on inclined surfaces, such as a car driving up a hill. Additionally, understanding these problems can help develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills that can be applied in various fields.

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