Three identical blocks of mass 0.6 kg are connected by light strings a...
Understanding the System
- We have three identical blocks, each with a mass of 0.6 kg.
- They are connected by light strings and move together with a uniform acceleration of 4.0 m/s².
- The total mass of the system (3 blocks) is:
Total mass = 3 × 0.6 kg = 1.8 kg.
Calculating the Total Force (F)
- According to Newton's second law, the net force acting on the system is given by:
F_net = m × a,
where:
- m = total mass = 1.8 kg,
- a = acceleration = 4.0 m/s².
- Thus,
F_net = 1.8 kg × 4.0 m/s² = 7.2 N.
- Therefore, the applied force F is:
F = 7.2 N.
Calculating Tensions in the Strings
- Let's denote the tension in the string between the first and second blocks as T1, and the tension between the second and third blocks as T2.
- For the third block (m3):
- The only force acting on it is T2.
- Using Newton's second law:
T2 = m3 × a = 0.6 kg × 4.0 m/s² = 2.4 N.
- For the second block (m2):
- The forces acting on it are T1 (pulling forward) and T2 (pulling backward):
- Thus, T1 - T2 = m2 × a.
- Substituting for m2:
T1 - 2.4 N = 0.6 kg × 4.0 m/s² = 2.4 N.
- Therefore, T1 = 2.4 N + 2.4 N = 4.8 N.
Summary
- Force F: 7.2 N
- Tension T1: 4.8 N
- Tension T2: 2.4 N