Two masses tied together on frictionless ramp

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the tension in the ropes connecting two masses, M1 (1.3 kg) and M2 (2.2 kg), on a frictionless ramp inclined at 29°. The key equations utilized include Newton's second law, F=ma, and the analysis of forces acting on the masses. The participant attempted to create a force diagram and calculate the acceleration using gravitational force components, but encountered difficulties in resolving the forces along the x-axis and y-axis.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Knowledge of trigonometric functions related to angles
  • Ability to create and interpret free body diagrams
  • Familiarity with the concept of tension in ropes
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of tension in connected masses on inclined planes
  • Learn how to resolve forces into components using trigonometry
  • Explore examples of free body diagrams in physics problems
  • Investigate the effects of different angles on tension calculations
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and forces, as well as educators looking for practical examples of tension in systems involving inclined planes.

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Homework Statement



Two boxes with different masses M1 = 1.3 kg and M2 = 2.2 kg are tied together on a frictionless ramp surface which makes an angle = 29° with the horizontal (see the figure below). (the figure is essentially two boxes tied together by a rope and then another rope tying the right box to the ramp. the left box(the bottom one) is M2 and the top box is M1.

What is the tension in the rope connecting the two boxes?
______ N
What is the tension in the rope connecting the first box to the ramp?
______ N




Homework Equations



F=ma

The Attempt at a Solution



I have tried to do the force diagram where the left is -y and the right is +x. Once I have drawn the force diagram then I put in gravity as the acceleration downward. Then I do 9.8/cos61 to find the acceleration downward at the specific angle. Then I put it into the f=ma equation to find the force downward at the angle for each box. Then I get stuck...
 
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Choose the x-axis as parallel to the plane... and y-axis as perpendicular to the plane.

What are the forces acting on M2? what are the components of these forces along the x-axis and y-axis?
 

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