Tension and Forces on an Inclined Plane

[Heat]

Homework Statement

Two blocks, each with weight w, are held in place on a frictionless incline.

In terms of w and the angle alpha of the incline, calculate the tension in the rope connecting the blocks.

In terms of w and the angle alpha of the incline, calculate the tension in the rope that connects block A to the wall.

Calculate the magnitude of the force that the incline exerts on each block.

Interpret your answers in part C for the case alpha = 0.

Interpret your answers in part C for the case alpha = 90 ^circ.

If possible express in terms of w and alpha.

The Attempt at a Solution

I just don't know where to start, but to show my attempt I will try to think this logically.

The weight of the tension of block B affects it the rope much more than the weight of block a, both have a normal force perpendicular to the surface.

 

[Sourabh N]

Draw free body diagram and apply Newton's laws.

 

[Heat]

ok I drew a fre ebody diagram for block b and a, but I don't know where to go from there... :(

 

[Heat]

ok, i solved the few questions in the beginning, now I am having problems with the magnitude.

Calculate the magnitude of the force that the incline exerts on each block.

Interpret your answers in part C for the case alpha = 0.

Interpret your answers in part C for the case alpha = 90 ^circ.

magnitude is sqrt ( x^2 + y^2).

so I substitute the components in, if so how.nvm, I figured it out. :D

 

[v3r0]

how do u find the magnitued. i was able to find the first 2parts on my own but I am not sure on how to calculate the mag.

 

[Sourabh N]

For part 3, notice that
1. The force exerted by incline on the block is perpendicular to the surface.
2. Since there is no motion in the perpendicular direction to incline (block is not flying away!), total force in that direction is zero.

See if you can figure it out now.