Three carts ( ), ( ) and ( ) are joined in a line by two light
PHYSICS · Subjective · A Level · Physics · Mechanics and materials · Mechanics and materials
Problem
Three carts P (2kg), Q (3kg) and R (5kg) are joined in a line by two light, inextensible strings and placed on a horizontal track. The coefficient of kinetic friction between each cart and the track is μk=0.10. A constant horizontal force of 30N is applied to cart P in the forward direction. Using g=10ms−2, find:
(i) the acceleration of the entire system,
(ii) the tension in the string between carts Q and R.