Friction and Tension with blocks on an incline

In summary, the blocks A and B, weighing 24.9N each, are connected by ropes of negligible mass and have a coefficient of kinetic friction of 0.39 with the surface. Block C descends with constant velocity. The tension in the rope connecting blocks A and B is 9.71N. The weight of block C is 32.4N. If the rope connecting A and B were cut, the acceleration of C would be 0.
  • #1
lhinds7
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Homework Statement
Blocks A, B, and C are placed as in the figure and connected by ropes of negligible mass. Both A and B weigh 24.9N each, and the coefficient of kinetic friction between each block and the surface is 0.39. Block C descends with constant velocity.
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a) Find the tension in the rope connecting blocks A and B.

b) What is the weight of block C?

c) If the rope connecting A and B were cut, what would be the acceleration of C?The attempt at a solution
I figured out part (a), 9.71N. I am stuck and have a mental block and can't get the weight of block C to save my life. I used the equation:

T2=T1+wsin[tex]\Theta[/tex]+[tex]\mu[/tex]NB

which yielded a result of 34.37N, which I know is incorrect. The answer in the back of the book is 30.8N, but the coefficient of friction and weights are different.
 
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  • #2
Can anybody point me in the right direction?
 
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  • #3
The exercise states the the block C has a constant velocity, which means that the force created by block C equals all the other forces.
Remember that Block A only contributes with friction, but block B contributes with friction and its part of its weight.
FC=FB+FA
 
  • #4
FA=.39*24.9=9.711
FB=.39*24.9*cos(36.9)+24.9*sin(36.9)=22,716
FC=32.427
I don't see any faults in my reasoning but I yield a different result. In any case, you should be aware that the friction of block B is only in terms of the perpendicular force to the ramp and not the entire weight of B. On the other hand, the projection the force of gravity towards downward direction is only a small fraction of the entire weight.
 
  • #5
32.4N is the answer that I finally got too and it is correct. Thanks for the help.
 

FAQ: Friction and Tension with blocks on an incline

What is friction and tension?

Friction is a force that opposes the motion of two surfaces that are in contact with each other. Tension is a force that is transmitted through a string, rope, or cable when it is pulled tight by forces acting from opposite ends.

How do friction and tension affect blocks on an incline?

Friction and tension play a crucial role in determining the motion of blocks on an incline. Friction acts in the opposite direction of the motion of the block and can either help or hinder its movement. Tension, on the other hand, can help to keep the block from sliding down the incline.

What factors affect the amount of friction and tension on a block on an incline?

The amount of friction and tension on a block on an incline can be affected by several factors. These include the weight of the block, the angle of the incline, the surface material of the block and the incline, and the presence of any external forces such as wind or gravity.

How can we calculate the amount of friction and tension on a block on an incline?

There are various formulas and equations that can be used to calculate the amount of friction and tension on a block on an incline. These include the friction force equation (F = μN) and the tension force equation (T = mg sinθ), where μ is the coefficient of friction, N is the normal force, m is the mass of the block, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and θ is the angle of the incline.

How can we reduce the amount of friction and tension on a block on an incline?

To reduce the amount of friction and tension on a block on an incline, one can use lubricants on the surfaces in contact, decrease the weight of the block, decrease the angle of the incline, and use smoother surface materials. Additionally, one can also adjust the external forces acting on the block, such as by using wind barriers or supports to counteract the effects of wind or gravity.

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