Basic Newton's Law Problem, 2 Blocks on a frictionless ramp/pulley

In summary, the conversation discusses drawing a free body diagram for a block on a frictionless ramp and finding the magnitude of each force and the acceleration of the block. It also mentions repeating the problem with friction and finding the new acceleration. The equations F=ma and F=mg are relevant. The solution involves splitting the problem into vectors and using SOHCAHTOA, with an answer of 0.86 m/s^2. The speaker also requests a detailed explanation with FBDs and calculations.
  • #1
ihatephysicss
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Homework Statement



Draw a free body diagram for the block on the frictionless ramp below. Break up any problem vectors into friendly vectors. Will you work in x and y components or parallel and perpendicular? Then, find the magnitude of each force you have labeled. Lastly, find the acceleration of the block down the ramp.

Repeat this problem with friction between the ramp and the block. The coefficient of friction is 0.2. What is the new acceleration of the block?

2ezo46r.jpg
Refer to this diagram ^

Homework Equations



F=ma
F=mg

The Attempt at a Solution



I am guessing you have to split the problem up into vectors involving triangles, and use SOHCAHTOA. (sin, cos, tan)
My answer is 0.86 m/s^2 for the acceleration, but I'm not sure this is right.
 
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  • #2
How did you get the answer? Show the FBD-s, and the calculations in detail, please. ehild
 

Related to Basic Newton's Law Problem, 2 Blocks on a frictionless ramp/pulley

What is Newton's First Law and how does it apply to this problem?

Newton's First Law, also known as the Law of Inertia, states that an object at rest will remain at rest and an object in motion will remain in motion at a constant velocity unless acted upon by an external force. In this problem, the two blocks are initially at rest and will remain so until an external force is applied to them.

What is the acceleration of the two blocks?

The acceleration of the two blocks can be determined using Newton's Second Law, which states that the net force acting on an object is equal to its mass multiplied by its acceleration. In this problem, the net force is equal to the force of gravity pulling the blocks down the ramp. The acceleration can be calculated using the formula a = F/m, where F is the force of gravity and m is the combined mass of the two blocks.

How does the presence of a frictionless ramp and pulley affect the problem?

The frictionless ramp and pulley eliminate the force of friction, which is a resistive force that would otherwise act on the blocks and decrease their acceleration. This allows for a more simplified calculation of the acceleration and overall motion of the blocks.

What is the relationship between the two blocks in this problem?

The two blocks are connected by a pulley, which means they are in a state of mutual dependence. This means that the acceleration of one block will directly affect the acceleration of the other block. If one block accelerates, the other block will also accelerate in the opposite direction.

How can the forces acting on each block be determined?

The forces acting on each block can be determined by using Newton's Third Law, which states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. In this problem, the force of gravity pulling the blocks down the ramp is equal and opposite to the force of the ramp pushing on the blocks, and the tension in the string is equal and opposite for both blocks.

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