Question

Two blocks (with masses of 2.0 kg and 4.0 kg) are on a bench tied together with string. They are being pulled to the right with a force of 30N. They each experience a friction force between the block and the bench.

(Refer to image)

The 2 kg block experiences a friction force with a friction coefficient of 0.30 and the 4 kg experiences a friction with a friction coefficient of 0.20.

Assume that g (the acceleration due to gravity) is 10.0 m/s/s.

Find the magnitude of the friction forces. Find the magnitude of the acceleration of the blocks. Use these answers to help you find the answer to the question:

What is tension in the string connecting the two blocks? (Submit just this answer in Newtons)

Answer 1

T = 34/3 N

Step-by-step explanation:

Magnitude of the friction force on 2kg block = 0.3x10x2 = 6N

Magnitude of the friction force on 4kg block = 0.2x10x4 = 8N

Magnitude of the acceleration of the blocks

F = ma

30 - 8 - 6 = (2+4)a

a = 8/3 m s^-2

Tension in the string connecting the two blocks

Consider the 2kg block,

T - f = ma

T - 6 = 2(8/3)

T = 34/3 N