How Is Terminal Velocity Calculated in a Submerged Block System?

In summary, two blocks connected by a string are released from rest on a frictionless slope. The first block has a mass of 3 kg and the second block has a mass of 4 kg, submerged in a liquid with a density of 1000 kg/m3. Given a drag force of 7v, the terminal velocity of the second block is found by solving for the drag force, which is equal to -11.8. The solution from the professor is 1.68m/s, but the reason for the discrepancy is unclear.
  • #1
trevo100
1
0
Homework Statement
Consider two blocks connected by a light, inextensible string over a light pulley
as follows:

dpzu2x.jpg


The slope is frictionless and the masses are released from rest. The mass m1 is
3 kg and the mass m2 is 4 kg where m2 is submerged completely (from the
beginning) in a liquid of density 1000 kg/m3. Take the density of m2 to be
8000kg/m3 and the drag force (in Newtons) to be FD = 7v, find the terminal
velocity of m2. (Hint: Don’t forget to include upthrust.)

The attempt at a solution

m1*g*sin50 + Fupthrust - fdrag - m2*g = (m1+m2)*a, when it reaches terminal velocity, acceleration becomes 0

22.5 + 4.9 - 39.2 -Fdrag = 0
Fdrag = -11.8
7v = -11.8
v = -1.68 m/s

The solution from my prof is 1.68m/s, but I can't figure out why I got minus in the equation.
 
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  • #2
I suggest you take a closer look at your values within your calculation.
 
  • #3
You need to think what the general direction you use in this question..
 

Related to How Is Terminal Velocity Calculated in a Submerged Block System?

What is drag force?

Drag force is a force that acts in the opposite direction of an object's motion through a fluid, such as air or water. It is caused by the friction between the object and the fluid it is moving through.

What factors affect drag force?

The factors that affect drag force include the velocity of the object, the density of the fluid, the surface area of the object, and the shape of the object. Objects with larger surface areas and higher velocities experience greater drag force.

How is drag force calculated?

Drag force can be calculated using the equation Fd = ½ρv²CDA, where ρ is the density of the fluid, v is the velocity of the object, CD is the drag coefficient, and A is the cross-sectional area of the object.

What is the difference between laminar and turbulent flow?

Laminar flow is a smooth, orderly flow of a fluid in which the layers of the fluid move in parallel. Turbulent flow is a chaotic, irregular flow of a fluid in which the layers of the fluid mix and swirl. Turbulent flow typically results in higher drag force than laminar flow.

How can drag force be reduced?

Drag force can be reduced by decreasing the surface area or velocity of an object, or by changing its shape to one that is more streamlined. Additionally, certain materials and coatings can reduce drag force by making the surface of the object smoother.

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