Two blocks of masses and are connected by a light

PHYSICS · Multi-part · CBSE · Physics · Laws of Motion · Laws of Motion

Problem

Two blocks of masses m1=2.0 kgm_1=2.0\,\text{kg} and m2=3.0 kgm_2=3.0\,\text{kg} are connected by a light, inextensible cord. Block m1m_1 is pulled by a constant horizontal force of magnitude F=20 NF=20\,\text{N} across a perfectly frictionless horizontal surface, while m2m_2 trails directly behind it on the same surface. Answer the following, showing all reasoning. (a) Draw separate free-body diagrams for blocks m1m_1 and m2m_2. (b) Determine the magnitude of the common acceleration of the two-block system. (c) Calculate the tension in the cord. (d) Suppose now that kinetic friction acts between each block and the surface with the same coefficient μk=0.10\mu_k=0.10, while FF remains 20 N20\,\text{N}. Determine the new magnitude of the acceleration of the system.

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