Two blocks are connected by a string as in (Figure 1) . Part A What is the upper
ID: 1592680 • Letter: T
Question
Two blocks are connected by a string as in (Figure 1) .
Part A
What is the upper block's acceleration if the coefficient of kinetic friction between the block and the table is 0.11?
Express your answer to two significant figures and include the appropriate units.
Figure 1 of 1
Two blocks are connected by a string as in (Figure 1) .
Part A
What is the upper block's acceleration if the coefficient of kinetic friction between the block and the table is 0.11?
Express your answer to two significant figures and include the appropriate units.
Figure 1 of 1
Explanation / Answer
Since the two blocks are connected by a string, their acceleration is the same.
We apply the equation F=ma to build two equations. T is the tension of the string.
Net force for the lower block: mg - T = ma
Net force for the upper block: T - Mg = Ma
We have two eqautions and two variables, so we simply solve for a, since it applies to both blocks.
T = Ma + Mg
mg - Ma - Mg = ma
a = g(m - M)/(m+M)
m = 1.0kg, M=2.0kg, =0.11, g=9.80ms^-2
=>a=9.81*(1-0.11*2)/(1+2) =2.5506m/s^2