What is the Mass of M1 in a Pulley System with Given Parameters?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the mass M1 in a pulley system where M2 is given as 3.5 kg, accelerating downwards at 3.35 m/s², with an angle θ of 35° and a coefficient of kinetic friction μk of 0.25. The derived formula for M1 is M1 = M2a / (g(sinθ - 1) - μka). After several calculations and adjustments, the correct mass M1 is determined to be approximately 2.056 kg. Participants emphasize the importance of correctly accounting for tension, gravitational components, and friction in the equations.

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  • #31
...If I divide out the m1 in order to get it to one side, won't that cancel out all the m1's?
 
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  • #32
You can't divide out because there is no m1 term in front of the T. That is why you have to get all the m1 terms on the same side and pull the common term (i.e. m1).
 
  • #33
Audacity said:
...If I divide out the m1 in order to get it to one side, won't that cancel out all the m1's?

No, the value of 'T' has no m1 in it. Just gather the like terms on side and then divide.
 
  • #34
When I go through and divide everything out, I get 6.99kg... That doesn't seem possible?

And isn't the correct answer...
 
  • #35
I went through and re-worked it. Got 4.472kg which is the correct answer. Thank you sooooo much Rockfreak. You have been an invaluable resource on this matter.
 

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