Physics problems involving mechanical equilibrium are very common in introductory physics classes. For this reason, we will practice doing a couple of these problems today.

Example 1: Two Masses on an Inclined Plane

This problem is adapted from Caltech's Ph1a course.

Upon an inclined plane of angle $\theta$ is placed a block of mass $m_2$. Upon $m_2$ is placed another block of mass $m_1$. The coefficient of static friction between $m_2$ and the inclined plane is $\mu_{2s}$ and the coefficient of sliding friction is $\mu_{2k}$. Likewise, the coefficient of static friction between $m_1$ and $m_2$ is $\mu_{1s}$ and the coefficient of sliding friction is $\mu_{1k}$. A force $F$ upward and parallel to the plane is applied to $m_2$.

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  1. What is the acceleration of $m_2$ when $m_1$ just starts to slip on it?
  2. What is the maximum value of $F$ before this slipping takes place?

Solution

Example 2: A Hanging Rope

This problem is adapted from Caltech's Ph1a course.

A rope of length $2l$ and uniform density (here: mass per unit length) $\rho$ is hanging over a nail in a wall with a piece of length $l$ on both sides. Friction, the thickness of the nail, and the thickness of the rope are negligible. When one creates a slight length difference between the two sides, a net force will start to act on the rope, and it will slide off the nail, faster and faster.

  1. When the length on one side is $l+x$ (with $0 < x < l$), what is the net force on the rope?
  2. Find the velocity as a function of $x$. Hint: make use of $\frac{dv}{dt}=\frac{dv}{dx}\frac{dx}{dt}$. What is the velocity when the rope completely comes off the nail?

Solution

Example 3: Pulley on an Inclined Plane

Two blocks of mass $m$ and $M$ are connected via pulley with a configuration shown below:

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The coefficient of static friction is $\mu_s$ between the block and surface. What is the minimum and maximum mass $M$ so that no sliding occurs?

Solution

Example 4: Pulley on an Inclined Plane (Again)

This problem is adapted from this link.

A block of mass $M$ is pulled using a pulley at constant velocity along a surface inclined at angle $\theta$. The coefficient of kinetic friction is $\mu_k$, between block and surface. Determine the pulling force $F$.

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Solution

Example 5: Two Pulleys

This problem is adapted from this link.

A block of mass $m$ is lifted at constant velocity using the two pulleys shown.

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Determine the magnitude of the pulling force $F$. Ignore the mass of the pulleys.

Solution