What is the acceleration of the…

Physics Questions

What is the acceleration of the lower block relative to the upper block when a force is applied, given that both blocks were initially at rest? A. 2 m/s² B. 4 m/s² C. 6 m/s² D. 8 m/s²

Short Answer

The maximum frictional forces for blocks A and B are calculated to be 160 N and 120 N, respectively, allowing both blocks to move together due to A’s higher friction. The common acceleration of both blocks is determined to be 2 m/s¬≤.

Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Understand the Frictional Forces

First, calculate the maximum frictional forces acting on both blocks. For block A, the maximum frictional force is given by:

  • f‚ÇÅ max = Œº‚ÇÅ N‚ÇÅ = (0.8)(20g) = 160 N

For block B, also calculate the normal force:

  • N‚ÇÇ = N‚ÇÅ + 10g = 300 N

Then calculate the maximum frictional force for block B:

  • f‚ÇÇ max = Œº‚ÇÇN‚ÇÇ = (0.4)(300) = 120 N

Step 2: Analyze the Conditions for Acceleration

Next, compare the maximum frictional forces to determine whether both blocks can accelerate together. Since f‚ÇÅ max (160 N) is greater than f‚ÇÇ max (120 N), this implies that the frictional force on block A is sufficient to prevent slipping. This means both blocks will move together under the influence of the applied force.

Step 3: Calculate the Common Acceleration

Now, calculate the common acceleration of both blocks. Use the formula:

  • ac = (Applied Force – f‚ÇÇ max) / (mB + mA)

Substituting the values, we get:

  • ac = (180 – 120) / (20 + 10) = 2 m/s¬≤

Thus, the acceleration of the lower block (B) concerning the upper block (A) is 2 m/s².

Related Concepts

Frictional force

The force that resists the relative motion of solid surfaces, fluid layers, or material elements sliding against each other, calculated as the product of the coefficient of friction and the normal force.

Normal force

The force exerted by a surface to support the weight of an object resting on it, acting perpendicular to the surface and balancing the weight of the object.

Acceleration

The rate of change of velocity of an object with respect to time, calculated as the net force acting on the object divided by its mass.

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