Need help on some mechanics questions from a text book

In summary, the request is for assistance with mechanics questions found in a textbook, indicating a need for clarification or problem-solving support in that subject area.
  • #1
TheePhysicsStudent
21
17
Homework Statement
I know HOW to get the answer as i underwent trial and error, but I don't actually understand the process of why we do what we do:
Relevant Equations
Friction = mgsin θ
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These are the questions I am failing to comprehend despite their very basic nature
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This is the wonderful support from the book explaining how to get the answer ! (It just gives you the answer no working out which is annoying)
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I
 
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  • #3
I would like to start with 2 B II, the support force from the slope on the object
 
  • #4
TheePhysicsStudent said:
I would like to start with 2 B II, the support force from the slope on the object
Sorry i looked at the wrong question, I meant Question 4 sorry for any inconvenience I caused you
 
  • #5
TheePhysicsStudent said:
Sorry i looked at the wrong question, I meant Question 4 sorry for any inconvenience I caused you
No need to apologize: we help voluntarily :smile:

In the mean time I have looked at the first one (2a) and I do have comments on that one:

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You are asked to show the three forces on the object. I see four arrows; two are correct and one is missing

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Agree ?

You are also asked for the support force from the slope acting on the object. Any suggestions ?

- - - - -

Re Question 4 (PF prefers one item per thread to facilitate referencing and avoid confusion, but never mind...)

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What you appear to do looks OK to me, but you are just like the book: you don't tell. What's the very basic nature under this one ?

Equilibrium ##\Leftrightarrow## sum of forces is zero

A better drawing is in order: in your picture the tensions don't act on the object

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  • #6
And somehow I get 6.96, i.e. 7.0 N, not 6.8

(golden rule: don't round off intermediate results).

The picture I had in mind:

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General idea clear now ? Basic nature :wink: ?
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  • #7
BvU said:
(golden rule: don't round off intermediate results).
Platinum rule: Don't find intermediate angles if you are looking for trig functions.

FBD_Hanging_mass.png

Here, $$\sin\theta=\frac{0.80}{\sqrt{0.12^2+0.80^2}}~;~~\cos\theta=\frac{0.12}{\sqrt{0.12^2+0.80^2}}~;~~\tan\theta=\frac{0.80}{0.12}.$$ :wink:
 
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  • #8
Ancient dutch expression: there's always boss above boss

Ancient greek expression: turtles all the way down

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  • #9
WOW! I can't thank you enough, especially for question 4 as I realise that whilst I was sort of there I made it so much weirder than it had to be, Many thanks to you guys
 
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FAQ: Need help on some mechanics questions from a text book

How do I approach solving mechanics problems from a textbook?

Start by carefully reading the problem to understand what is being asked. Identify the known and unknown variables. Draw a diagram if necessary. Use relevant equations and principles from mechanics, such as Newton's laws, conservation of energy, or kinematics equations. Finally, solve for the unknowns step by step and check your work for consistency.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when solving mechanics problems?

Common mistakes include misreading the problem, neglecting to include all forces in a free-body diagram, incorrect application of equations, and arithmetic errors. Always double-check your units and ensure that your final answer makes physical sense.

How can I identify which equations to use for a given mechanics problem?

Identify the type of problem you are dealing with: kinematics, dynamics, energy, or momentum. For kinematics, use equations that relate displacement, velocity, acceleration, and time. For dynamics, apply Newton's laws. For energy problems, use conservation of energy principles. For momentum problems, use conservation of momentum equations.

What should I do if I get stuck on a mechanics problem?

If you get stuck, take a step back and review the problem statement and your initial assumptions. Check if you have used all the given information. Try breaking the problem into smaller parts or solving a simpler version of the problem. Discussing with classmates or seeking help from a tutor can also provide new insights.

How can I improve my problem-solving skills in mechanics?

Practice regularly by solving a variety of problems. Review the theory and principles behind the problems to deepen your understanding. Work on problems without looking at the solutions first, and then check your answers. Additionally, studying worked examples and understanding the steps taken can provide useful strategies for solving similar problems.

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