Two blocks with \(m_1 \gt m_2\) are being pushed so that they move together with increasing speed in such a way that block 2 does not move vertically.
Figure5.8.1.Two blocks moving together.
Sketch a free-body diagram for each block and rank the magnitudes of all the vertical forces acting on the two blocks.
SubsectionA*R*C*S Activities
A*R*C*S5.8.2.The Pair of Wedges.
The figure shows two wedges with different masses: \(m_2\) is on a table and \(m_1\) is on \(m_2\) (not touching the table). Both the table and the surface between the wedges are frictionless. You push on \(m_2\) with an unknown constant force in such a way that the wedges move with the same constant acceleration to the right. Determine the magnitude of the unknown force and the magnitude of the acceleration.
The two wedges are accelerating together. It can be especially useful to choose a reference frame in which the acceleration points along one of the axis directions.
A*R*C*S5.8.3.Tilted Ramp.
The two boxes below are initially at rest, connected by ropes and sitting on tables. Determine the acceleration of the system, assuming that the boxes begin to slide and that both surfaces have nonzero friction (\(\mu_k\)).
Figure5.8.3.Two blocks, connected by a rope on a tilted ramp.
As part of your symbolic sensemaking (part 3c), evaluate your answer in at least one special case, including a detailed explanation for what the answer should be for the case you chose.
