Two masses connect by a rope over unequal slopes

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving problems involving two masses connected by a rope over slopes with unequal angles. Key concepts include analyzing forces such as tension, gravity, and weight components, with the equation ƩF=0 indicating equilibrium for the blocks. Participants emphasize the importance of drawing free-body diagrams for each mass and applying Newton's laws to derive equations for the system. The consensus is that without friction, the system is likely to move left, and calculations are necessary to determine the friction required to maintain equilibrium.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Familiarity with free-body diagrams
  • Knowledge of tension and gravitational force components
  • Ability to solve simultaneous equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn how to construct free-body diagrams for systems with multiple forces
  • Study the application of Newton's second law in non-90 degree scenarios
  • Explore the concept of static friction and its role in equilibrium problems
  • Practice solving problems involving inclined planes and connected masses
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Students in physics, particularly those studying mechanics, as well as educators looking for examples of tension and force analysis in systems with inclined planes.

savva
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Hey Guys,

I'm stuck with two particular problems that relates to two masses attached by a rope on a slope with unequal angles and I'm unsure how to go about the problem, I have never accounted a problem such as these before and I'm stuck with how to go about it. I have taken two photos of the questions as they include a diagram!

Thanks in advanced.

Homework Statement



Q.9 and Q.19 are those I am referring to in the attachments.

Homework Equations



I believe looking at all the forces affecting the diagram, Tension, Gravity, Weight components, ultimately to my understanding ƩF=0 for the block to remain at rest, that is the forces balance. I am a bit confused on how to set out some of the forces as most problems I have encounted similar to this have a 90 degree angle where the block on the left is.

The Attempt at a Solution



I do not have answers to these two questions as they are not provided with the textbook
 

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For each mass try writing sum of all forces in x and y direction. [and show us how you wrote them]

Without going into calculations my intuition tells me the system will move to the left. [if there is no friction, can you tell what is the friction needed to keep the system at rest?]
 
estro said:
For each mass try writing sum of all forces in x and y direction. [and show us how you wrote them]

Without going into calculations my intuition tells me the system will move to the left. [if there is no friction, can you tell what is the friction needed to keep the system at rest?]

I don't know, I'm confused, I know the only possible forces that can act is tension and weight components but I don't know how to set it out. Here is an attempt anyway

F1=F2

F1:
x: mgcosθ
y: T-mgsinθ

F2:
x: T-mgcosθ
y: T-mgsinθ
 
1. Draw the system with all the forces, you don't need x and y as for both the masses all the relevant forces are in 1 dimension, choose the direction parallel to the slope. [in the other dimension sum of all forces are 0...]
2. Don't forget the Newton laws.
3. You will have 2 equations with two unknowns, do you know what they are?

Let your intuition help you.
Hint: What can you tell about a? [\sum F=ma]
 
Another hint, for each mass draw its own diagram and choose the coordinate system parallel to the slope.
 
Last edited:

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