How Do You Solve Newton's Third Law Homework Problems?

In summary, the conversation is about a homework assignment involving finding the acceleration of a system and the tension in each rope. The questions provided and a diagram are referenced. The person is unsure of where to start and mentions using the second law's equation. They also mention needing help and being confused. A solution is suggested, involving using an equivalent mass and tension and formulating the resultant force.
  • #1
forcefrom
11
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Alright, so I have this sheet for homework and I'm not sure where to start.

Incase you are unable to see, the questions say:

a) What is the acceleration of the system and the tension in each rope if the girl lifts with a force of 100.0N?
b) What is the force that she pulls with if T3 (bottom bucket) = 15.0N?

http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/696/photowda.jpg/

To begin, I know I need to utilize the second law's equation F=ma, but I do not know which masses I am supposed to use to find Fg = gm.

I need serious help, I am completely confused!
 
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  • #2
To find the acceleration of the system, you can replace the entire system by an equivalent mass M and a tension T.

So M would be the sum of the 3 masses and T would T1+T2+T3 (they told you what 'T' was in the question.)

Just formulate the resultant force and you should get it now.
 

FAQ: How Do You Solve Newton's Third Law Homework Problems?

What is Newton's Third Law of Motion?

Newton's Third Law of Motion states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. This means that whenever an object exerts a force on another object, the second object will exert an equal and opposite force back on the first object.

How does Newton's Third Law apply to everyday life?

Newton's Third Law can be observed in many everyday situations. For example, when you walk, your feet push against the ground and the ground pushes back with an equal force, allowing you to move forward. When you sit on a chair, your weight pushes down on the chair and the chair pushes back up on you with an equal force.

What are some examples of Newton's Third Law Problems?

Some common examples of Newton's Third Law Problems include a rocket launching into space, a person jumping off a diving board, and a car accelerating forward. In each of these situations, there are two objects interacting with each other and exerting equal and opposite forces.

How do you solve Newton's Third Law Problems?

To solve a Newton's Third Law Problem, you must first identify the two objects that are interacting and the forces they are exerting on each other. Then, you can use Newton's Third Law equation (F1 = -F2) to determine the magnitude and direction of the forces. It is important to remember that the forces are always equal in magnitude and opposite in direction.

Why is Newton's Third Law important in physics?

Newton's Third Law is important in physics because it helps us understand the fundamental relationship between forces and motion. It also allows us to predict and analyze the motion of objects in various situations, such as collisions and interactions between multiple objects. This law is essential in many areas of science and engineering, including mechanics, aerodynamics, and rocket propulsion.

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