Work energy principle and power

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around a physics problem involving two particles connected by a string over a pulley, focusing on the work-energy principle and the calculation of tension in the string. Participants are exploring the dynamics of the system, including the forces acting on the particles and the work done on them during motion.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents an expression for the tension in the string as T = 40m/(m+2) N, derived from simultaneous equations involving the forces on both particles.
  • Another participant discusses the work done on the 2 kg mass by the force of tension, suggesting a relationship involving the tension and the height to which mass X rises.
  • A later reply reiterates the work done on the 2 kg mass, emphasizing the same relationship and thanking the previous participant for their input.
  • One participant questions the clarity of the initial post, pointing out that the variables "T" (tension) and "a" (acceleration) were not explicitly defined, which could lead to confusion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no consensus on the clarity of the problem statement, as one participant expresses confusion regarding the definitions of key variables. The mathematical expressions and reasoning presented are not universally accepted, and participants are still working through the problem.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not explicitly stated all assumptions or definitions, which may affect the understanding of the problem. The discussion includes unresolved aspects of the work-energy principle as applied to the scenario.

Shah 72
MHB
Messages
274
Reaction score
0
Particle X of mass 2 kg , and particle Y of mass m kg are attached to the ends of a light inextensible string of length 4.8m. The string passes over a fixed smooth pulley and hangs vertically either side of the pulley. Particle X is held at ground level, 3m below the pulley. Particle X is released and rises while particle Y descends to the ground

a) Find an expression in terms of m for the tension in the string while both particles are moving.
By getting two equations
T-20=2a and T-10m=-ma
Solving simultaneously and removing a I got mT+2T-40m=0,
I finally got T=40m/(m+2) N
b) use work energy principle to find how close particle X gets to the pulley in subsequent motion.
Iam not able to get this ans. Pls help
 
Mathematics news on Phys.org
work done on the 2kg mass by the force of tension ...

$W = (T \, Newtons) \cdot (1.2 \, meters) = 2gH$, where $H$ is the highest point mass X rises above ground level.
 
skeeter said:
work done on the 2kg mass by the force of tension ...

$W = (T \, Newtons) \cdot (1.2 \, meters) = 2gH$, where $H$ is the highest point mass X rises above ground level.
Thanks!
 
The problem I have with
"a) Find an expression in terms of m for the tension in the string while both particles are moving.
By getting two equations
T-20=2a and T-10m=-ma"
is that you have not said what either "T" nor "a" are!

I can guess that "T" is the tension in the string and that "a" is the acceleration of the particles but you really should have said thar.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
948
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
1K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K