In: Physics
Three blocks of unknown mass m1 = 1.0 kg, m2 = 2.0 kg, and m3 = 3.0 kg are on a frictionless horizontal surface as shown on the figure below. The blocks are connected by ideal, massless strings. A force FL = 12 N is applied to the left block and is directed to the left. A force FR = 33 N is applied to the right block, and is directed to the right.
Find the tensions T12 and T23, and the acceleration of the system.
Your figure is absent.
Drawing its free body diagram,
Acceleration of the system of mass will Fext/M = 21/6 = 3.5m/s2. Towards right.
Each block will move with acceleration of centre of mass, as no one can leave string.
Hence for tension in string between block 1-2 apply NLM on block 1 Fnet = ma = 1×3.5 = 3.5N
T-12 = 3.5 hence T12 = 15.5 N
For tension T23 apply NLM on block 3
Fnet = ma = 3×3.5= 10.5N
33- T= 10.5 hence T23 = 22.5N