Finding tension between two objects with different fs

  • Thread starter Potatochip911
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Tension
In summary, the tension in the strap that the boy uses to hold onto the pack is 15N. This is calculated by finding the acceleration of the boy and pack using the equations F=ma and Fnet=F1+F2+F3...+Fn, and then solving for T by rearranging one of the equations. The acceleration was found by drawing free body diagrams for the boy and pack separately, and using the equation sum of forces = mass x acceleration.
  • #1
Potatochip911
318
3

Homework Statement


What is the tension in the strap which the boy uses to hold onto the pack?
Mass of Boy=45kg
Mass of Pack=25kg
θ=42°
Coefficient of kinetic friction between boy and incline=0.35
Coefficient of kinetic friction between pack and incline=0.48
Acceleration of boy=4m/s^2
Capture.JPG

Homework Equations


Fnet=F1+F2+F3...+Fn
F=ma

The Attempt at a Solution


Mass of boy=M
Mass of pack=m
Fpb=parallel force of boy
etc...

Fpb=Mgsinθ
Fpp=mgsinθ
fsb=0.35Mcosθ
fsp=0.48mcosθ

a(M+m)=Fpb+Fpp-fsb-fsp-T

I'm really confused as to how to solve this since both acceleration and tension are unknowns. I've tried doing a lot of things to try and get a value for acceleration but none of them have given me the correct answer which is T=15N.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Draw free body diagrams for the boy and the pack separately.
Apply ##\sum \vec F = m\vec a##, and you'll end up with four equations with four unknowns which have to be true simultaneously.
 
Last edited:
  • #3
Simon Bridge said:
Draw free body diagrams for the boy and the pack separately.
Thanks so much! Can't believe I messed that up haha. If anyone wants the solution

1. Fpb-T-Fsb=Ma
2. Fpp+T-Fsp=ma

Add them together

FpB+Fpp-Fsb-Fsp=Ma+ma
a=(FpB+Fpp-Fsb-Fsp)/(M+m)
After putting values in
a=3.67m/s^2

Rearranging first equation

T=Fpb-fsb-Ma
T=15N
 

Related to Finding tension between two objects with different fs

1. How do you find tension between two objects with different frictional forces?

To find the tension between two objects with different frictional forces, you need to use the equation T = μmg, where T is the tension, μ is the coefficient of friction, m is the mass of the object, and g is the acceleration due to gravity. You also need to consider the direction of the forces and whether they are acting in the same or opposite directions.

2. What is the relationship between tension and frictional forces?

Tension and frictional forces are directly related. As the frictional force between two objects increases, the tension in the connecting string or rope also increases. This is because the tension is required to counteract the frictional force and keep the objects in equilibrium.

3. Can the tension between two objects with different frictional forces ever be zero?

Yes, it is possible for the tension between two objects with different frictional forces to be zero. This can happen when the objects are not in motion and there is no net external force acting on them. In this case, the frictional force is balanced by the tension in the string or rope, resulting in a tension of zero.

4. How does the coefficient of friction affect the tension between two objects?

The coefficient of friction plays a crucial role in determining the tension between two objects. A higher coefficient of friction means that more force is required to overcome the friction and keep the objects in motion. This results in a higher tension in the connecting string or rope.

5. Can tension be greater than frictional force between two objects?

Yes, the tension between two objects can be greater than the frictional force. This can happen when the objects are moving with an acceleration, in which case the tension needs to be greater than the frictional force to maintain the acceleration and prevent the objects from slowing down.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
2
Replies
38
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
1K
Replies
6
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
24
Views
8K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
2K
Back
Top