Tension of a string with a pulley

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The problem involves two masses connected by a string over a frictionless pulley on an incline, with specific values for the masses and the angle of the incline. The goal is to determine the tension in the string.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the relationship between the tension in the string and the weights of the masses, with initial assumptions about tension being questioned. There are attempts to derive equations of motion for both masses and to calculate acceleration.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on setting up equations of motion, while others have shared their calculations and sought confirmation on their reasoning. The discussion reflects a collaborative effort to clarify the problem and explore different interpretations of the mechanics involved.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of a homework assignment, which may limit the information they can use or the methods they can apply. There is an emphasis on understanding the dynamics of the system rather than simply arriving at a numerical answer.

asdf12321asdf
Messages
22
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


Two masses are connected by a string over a pulley as shown below. The incline is
frictionless and makes a 50 degree angle from the horizontal. If m1 = 3.00 kg and m2 = 8.00 kg, find the tension in the string.

ZUrQB.png

Homework Equations


F = ma

The Attempt at a Solution


I thought the tension in the string would be the same as the weight of m1, which is 29.4N, but that is not the correct answer. I am not sure what to try from here.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
m1 accelerates, so you need to take that into consideration.
First write up the equations of motion of the two blocks.
i.e. m1*a=...
and m2*a=...
 
I got that that a equals 2.79m/s², so:

m1*a = 3 * 2.79 = 8.37N
m2*a = 8 * 2.79 = 22.32N

Is that what you mean? Is that right?
 
Yes, and now you can express the tension of the string. m1*a=m1*g-T
 
That got me the correct answer! Thanks so much for your help!
 
Last edited:

Similar threads

  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
5K
  • · Replies 33 ·
2
Replies
33
Views
3K
  • · Replies 29 ·
Replies
29
Views
6K
  • · Replies 102 ·
4
Replies
102
Views
9K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K
Replies
21
Views
2K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
1K