What is the Maximum Acceleration of a Towed Block on an Inclined Plane?

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves two identical blocks connected by a string on an inclined plane, with a focus on determining the maximum acceleration while ensuring one block remains in contact with the slope. The subject area pertains to dynamics and forces on inclined planes.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the implications of the angle of the towing string and its effect on the normal force, questioning how to maintain contact with the slope. There are attempts to identify the forces acting on the blocks, particularly the normal force and the components of gravitational force.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different aspects of the problem, including the need to analyze forces and the conditions for liftoff. Some guidance has been provided regarding breaking down forces into components and the importance of drawing diagrams.

Contextual Notes

Participants express confusion regarding the conditions under which block A remains in contact with the slope, indicating a need for clarification on the problem's assumptions and constraints.

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Homework Statement



Two identical blocks A & B each of mass, m, are connected together by a light string, S1, and are placed on a smooth plane inclined at 30degrees to the hotizontal. A second string, S2, is attached to block A and is used to tow the blocks up the slope with S2 inclined at 30degress to the slope.

a) Show that if block A is to remain in contact with the slope, the tension in S2 cannot exceed mg.sqrt3 and hence find the maximum possible acceleration of the system.

b) Show that the ration between the tensions in S1 and S2 is sqrt3 : 4, independent of the acceleration of the system

Homework Equations


All the equation you may need to use


The Attempt at a Solution


Dont know where to start from. When the questions states if block A needs to remain in contact.. its confusing me.
 
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The thing is that the string is at an angle to the slope and thus tends to lift block A off the slope. You'll have to find the normal force(s) and find the value of the string force that makes the total normal force zero (liftoff).
 
i know the principle, i just can't come to prove it... if anyone can show me the first lines.
 
Can you find the component of mg that is normal - straight into the slope? Then do the same for the string force. If you can't see it, draw a diagram and show the forces separated into normal and parallel to the ramp components.
 

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