What Is the Minimum Mass Difference for Atwood's Machine with Friction?

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In summary, the problem involves two masses connected over a pulley with a friction resistance of 0.147 N. The question asks for the minimum mass difference needed to cause the pulley system to have a non-zero acceleration when released from rest. The equation for this is a = g[(m))/((M)]- f/((M)), where m is the mass difference and M is the total mass. One side must pull down on the pulley with a force that is 0.147 N greater than the other, and this can be solved by plugging in the values and setting a = 0 to find the minimum mass difference.
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Homework Statement



Two masses are connected over a pulley which has a friction resistance of 0.147 N. What is the minimum mass difference to cause the pulley system to have a non-zero acceleration when released from rest? Total Mass = 250 g

Homework Equations



a= g[(m))/((M)]- f/((M)) Or

a= g[(m))/((M)]

m = mass difference
M = Total mass

The Attempt at a Solution



I just need to get started off in the right direction, as i don't really understand the question
 
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One side must pull down on the pulley with a force that is 0.147 N greater than the other. Hint: How does the weight of masses relate to the tension in the rope?
 
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Can i just plug in all the values in the equation a= g[(m))/((M)]- f/((M)), and a = 0 and solve for m?
 

FAQ: What Is the Minimum Mass Difference for Atwood's Machine with Friction?

What is an Atwood's Machine?

An Atwood's Machine is a simple mechanical device used to study the principles of motion and force. It consists of two masses connected by a string or rope, with one mass hanging over a pulley. The system is used to demonstrate the effects of gravity and tension on objects.

How does an Atwood's Machine work?

The Atwood's Machine works by balancing the forces acting on the two masses. The tension in the string pulls upward on the heavier mass, while the force of gravity pulls downward on both masses. The difference in these forces causes the masses to accelerate in opposite directions.

What is the equation for an Atwood's Machine?

The equation for an Atwood's Machine is F = (m1-m2)g, where F is the net force, m1 and m2 are the masses, and g is the acceleration due to gravity. This equation is based on Newton's Second Law of Motion, which states that the net force on an object is equal to its mass multiplied by its acceleration.

How is an Atwood's Machine used in physics experiments?

An Atwood's Machine is commonly used in physics experiments to study the effects of different variables, such as mass, tension, and angle, on the acceleration and motion of the system. It can also be used to determine the value of the gravitational constant, and to demonstrate the principles of Newton's Laws of Motion.

Are there any real-world applications of Atwood's Machine?

While Atwood's Machine is primarily used as a teaching tool in physics, it does have some real-world applications. For example, it can be used to understand the forces acting on elevators and pulley systems, and to study the motion of objects in free-fall. It is also used in engineering and design to calculate the necessary tension in cables and ropes for different structures.

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