Masses on inclined planes and pulleys

In summary, two objects, a 12 kg cart on a frictionless 42 deg. incline and a 15kg block on a horizontal surface with a coefficient of friction of 0.23, are connected by a pulley and string. The question is to determine the acceleration of the system of masses. The equation Fnet=ma is relevant to this problem. It is recommended to make separate Free Body diagrams for each mass and apply Newton's 2nd law to each block separately. The possibility of the system not moving at all is mentioned and it is suggested to write out the equations to check this possibility. Assuming the pulley is massless and smooth, the tension in the string would be uniform and it is advised
  • #1
Patra
3
0
1. Two objects are connected via a pulley and some string. The 12 kg cart is on a frictionless 42 deg. incline while the 15kg block is on a horizontal surface having a coefficient of friction equal to 0.23. Determine the acceleration of the system of masses.



2. Fnet=ma



3. I first tried making a FBD for the 15kg mass, but I'm not sure how I should incorporate the other mass into the diagram. Also, because the mass on the horizontal surface is heavier AND is on a frictional surface, and the mass on the incline weighs less, wouldn't the system not move at all?

Thanks in advance for any help. I find that I don't respond very well to my instructor's teaching style, but I'm trying to make the best of it.
 
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  • #2
Hi, Patra, welcome to Physics Forums!:smile:
Patra said:
1. Two objects are connected via a pulley and some string. The 12 kg cart is on a frictionless 42 deg. incline while the 15kg block is on a horizontal surface having a coefficient of friction equal to 0.23. Determine the acceleration of the system of masses.[/b]



2. Fnet=ma



3. I first tried making a FBD for the 15kg mass,
Please show what equation you came up with, using Newton's 2nd law.
but I'm not sure how I should incorporate the other mass into the diagram.
make a separate Free Body diagram of the mass on the incline, choosing the x-axis paralle to the incline. What equation do you get using Newton's 2nd Law?
Also, because the mass on the horizontal surface is heavier AND is on a frictional surface, and the mass on the incline weighs less, wouldn't the system not move at all?
that is a possibility, if the mass on the incline was light enough. Write your equations to find out. What 2 equations do you get when you apply Newton 2 to each block separately?
 
  • #3
Patra said:
Also, because the mass on the horizontal surface is heavier AND is on a frictional surface, and the mass on the incline weighs less, wouldn't the system not move at all?

That is just a possibility. You have to check it.
Now if the pulley is massless and smooth (have to assume if not given) then tension in the string would be uniform. Make separate FBD. Also is there any relation between the acceleration of the two blocks
 

FAQ: Masses on inclined planes and pulleys

What is the concept of a mass on an inclined plane?

The concept of a mass on an inclined plane refers to the study of how an object with a certain mass moves when placed on a surface that is at an angle to the ground. This can include analyzing the forces acting on the object and determining its acceleration and velocity.

How does the angle of the inclined plane affect the motion of the mass?

The angle of the inclined plane can greatly affect the motion of the mass. A steeper angle will result in a greater force pulling the object down the incline, causing it to accelerate faster. A shallower angle will result in a smaller force and slower acceleration.

What role do pulleys play in a system with masses on inclined planes?

Pulleys are used in systems with masses on inclined planes to change the direction of the force acting on the object. By redirecting the force, pulleys can make it easier to lift or move an object, or change the direction of motion.

How does friction affect the motion of a mass on an inclined plane?

Friction can have a significant impact on the motion of a mass on an inclined plane. It acts in the opposite direction of the motion, slowing down the object and making it more difficult to move. The amount of friction present depends on the roughness of the surfaces in contact and the weight of the object.

What are some real-world applications of masses on inclined planes and pulleys?

There are many real-world applications of masses on inclined planes and pulleys, including elevator systems, ramps for wheelchairs, and even roller coasters. These principles are also used in construction and engineering projects to move heavy objects and materials to higher levels.

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