Calculating Acceleration and Tensions in a Blocks and Pulley System

In summary, the given problem involves a system with a block of mass 4.4 kg resting on a ledge with a coefficient of kinetic friction of 0.25. The block is connected to a hanging block of mass 2.1 kg through a string passing over a pulley. The pulley has a uniform disk shape with a radius of 8.4 cm and a mass of 0.62 kg. The goal is to find the acceleration of each block and the tensions in the segments of the string between each block and the pulley. To solve this problem, equations for torque, inertia, and angular acceleration must be used, taking into account the two different tensions in the string and the moment of inertia of the pul
  • #1
DragonZero
12
0

Homework Statement



In the system shown below, there is a block of mass M = 4.4 kg resting on a horizontal ledge. The coefficient of kinetic friction between the ledge and the block is 0.25. The block is attached to a string that passes over a pulley, and the other end of the string is attached to a hanging block of mass m = 2.1 kg. The pulley is a uniform disk of radius 8.4 cm and mass 0.62 kg. Find the acceleration of each block and the tensions in the segments of string between each block and the pulley.

Homework Equations



T - Mg(coefficient of kinetic friction) = Ma
mg - T = ma
a = g((m-M)/(M+m))

torque = inertia * alpha
alpha = linear acceleration / radius

The Attempt at a Solution



inertia = 0.5 * 0.62 * 0.084^2 + 0.62 * 0.084^2 = 0.00656

For the acceleration, I think the main equation I'll need to use is torque = inertia * (linear acceleration / radius), but I'm not sure how to find torque.
 
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  • #2
Assume the string to have two tensions. One for the region between the pulley and the hanging block. One for the region between the pulley and the resting block.
 
  • #3
So would that be:

T - Mg(coefficient of kinetic friction) = mg - T
 
  • #4
There is only one T term there. And did you take into account the moment of inertia of the pulley?

Assume tension [itex]T_{1}[/itex] for the region of the string between the hanging block and the pulley. Assume tension [itex]T_{2}[/itex] for the region of the string between the resting block and the pulley.

Use Newton's 2nd law for the two blocks, and an equation connecting angular acceleration, torque and moment of inertia for the pulley.
 
  • #5
the FBD will be like:

attachment.php?attachmentid=35911&stc=1&d=1306330573.jpg


note that tensions are different
and also linear acceleration of blocks will be (angular acc of pulley)*(radius of pulley)Now wrote eqn's
 

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FAQ: Calculating Acceleration and Tensions in a Blocks and Pulley System

What is a block and pulley with mass?

A block and pulley with mass is a simple machine that is used to lift or move heavy objects by using the principle of mechanical advantage. It consists of a fixed or movable pulley attached to a block or weight, with a rope or cable running through it.

How does a block and pulley with mass work?

A block and pulley with mass works by distributing the weight of the object being lifted or moved between multiple ropes or cables. This reduces the amount of force needed to lift the object, making it easier to move.

What are the different types of block and pulley with mass?

There are three main types of block and pulley with mass: fixed, movable, and compound. Fixed pulleys have a stationary axle and are used to change the direction of force. Movable pulleys have a movable axle and are used to provide mechanical advantage. Compound pulleys combine fixed and movable pulleys to provide even greater mechanical advantage.

What are the advantages of using a block and pulley with mass?

The main advantage of using a block and pulley with mass is that it reduces the amount of force needed to lift or move heavy objects. This makes tasks easier and more efficient. It also allows for greater control and precision in lifting or moving objects.

How do you calculate the mechanical advantage of a block and pulley with mass?

The mechanical advantage of a block and pulley with mass can be calculated by dividing the weight of the object being lifted by the force applied to the rope or cable. For example, if an object weighs 100 pounds and a force of 50 pounds is applied, the mechanical advantage would be 2. This means that the force applied is half of the weight of the object being lifted.

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