Tension problem, finding acceleration with kinetic friction

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the acceleration of a 2.0 kg block connected to two other blocks through frictionless pulleys. The coefficient of kinetic friction between the block and the table is 0.17, and the user attempts to derive the acceleration using three Newton's equations. However, they encounter issues with their equations, particularly with a zero in the denominator and inconsistencies in the direction of acceleration. Participants point out errors in the equations governing friction and the need to ensure all blocks share the same acceleration due to their connection. The user reflects on their mistakes and seeks clarification to resolve the problem accurately.
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Three blocks are connected as shown in the uploaded picture. The strings and friction-less pulleys have negligible masses, and the coefficient of kinetic friction between the 2.0 kg block and the table is 0.17. What is the acceleration of the 2.0 kg block?

Homework Equations


∑F = ma

The Attempt at a Solution



So i wrote 3 Newton equations:

k-T1+T2 = m2a

T1-m1g = m1a

T2-m3g = m3a

Putting them together I got:

km2g - m1g + m3g = a(m2 + m1 - m3)and then tried to solve for acceleration. Problem is every time I do it I end up with a 0 in the denominator so I don't know if I'm doing something wrong conceptually or if I am just messing up in my algebra. I'm also not sure if all three of the blocks have the same acceleration. I would think so since they are all on a string.
 

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Your equation do not match your drawing... but I think I can figure it out.
m1=1kg, m2=2kg and m3=3kg right?

The first equation is incorrect - what is the equation governing friction?
The last equation is inconsistent with the first two - check the direction for positive acceleration.
 
Oh derp... haha. Thanks.

I'm looking through my old exams and I'm finding so many little mistakes like that.
 
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