What Is the Acceleration and Tension in a Frictionless Inclined Plane System?

In summary, the conversation discusses a problem involving two masses, m1 and m2, connected by a cord on a frictionless inclined plane. The question asks for the acceleration of the system and the tension in the cord for three different situations. The relevant equation is ƩF=ma and the attempt at a solution involves breaking down the forces in the x and y directions. It is mentioned that a mistake was made in the calculation for part A, and the quadratic formula is not needed to solve the problem.
  • #1
anim8or
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Homework Statement


If m1=m2=1.0 kg and θ=30°, what will be the acceleration of the system? Calculate the tension in the cord, if a block m1 lying on a frictionless inclined plane and is connected to a mass less cord. Assume m1 is moving down the plane for A), and for B) m1 is in the opposite direction. C) If m1= 1 kg and θ=30°, and the system remains at rest, what must the mass of m2 be? Calculate the tension.

Homework Equations



ƩF=ma

The Attempt at a Solution



For part A
I have this so far
m1 x: ƩF=mg(sin30°)-T=ma
T=mg(sin 30°)/ma
y: ƩF=N-mg(cos 30°)=0
N=mg(cos 30°)
m2 y: T-mg=ma
T=ma+mg
T1=T2
therefore, ma+mg=(g(sin 30°))/a
so to solve for a I end up getting
a2+ ga - gsin30°=0
so do I just do the quadratic formula here or am I going the wrong way about it?

Here's the problem if you need to see the picture

http://imageshack.us/f/812/ue4y.jpg/


 
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  • #2
No need for the quadratic formula. look at your Forces in the direction. You made a mistake.
 

Related to What Is the Acceleration and Tension in a Frictionless Inclined Plane System?

1. What is Newton's second law of motion?

Newton's second law of motion states that the acceleration of an object is directly proportional to the net force applied to it and inversely proportional to its mass.

2. What is the formula for Newton's second law of motion?

The formula for Newton's second law of motion is F=ma, where F is the net force applied to an object, m is the mass of the object, and a is the acceleration of the object.

3. How does Newton's second law of motion relate to everyday life?

Newton's second law of motion is applicable to many everyday situations, such as driving a car, throwing a ball, or riding a bike. It helps us understand how forces affect the motion of objects and how we can manipulate these forces to achieve a desired outcome.

4. What is the difference between mass and weight in relation to Newton's second law of motion?

Mass is a measurement of the amount of matter in an object, while weight is a measurement of the force of gravity acting on an object. In Newton's second law of motion, mass is a constant while weight can vary depending on the strength of gravity.

5. Can Newton's second law of motion be applied to non-rigid objects?

Yes, Newton's second law of motion can be applied to non-rigid objects as long as the net force and acceleration are calculated using the center of mass of the object.

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