A right triangular wedge of mass M and angle theta, supporting a cubical block o

Question

A right triangular wedge of mass M and angle theta, supporting a cubical block of mass m on its side, rests on a horizontal table, as shown.

a. What horizontal acceleration a must M have relative to the table to keep m stationary relative to the wedge, assuming frictionless contacts?

b. What horizontal force F must be applied to the wedge to achieve this result, assuming a fritionless table top?

c. Suppose no horizontal force is suppplied to M and both suraces are frictionless. Find the resulting acceleration of each mass relative to the table.

Explanation / Answer

a)

Lets call "F" the horizontal force
for cubical block of mass m
Fcos(theta) =mgsin(theta)
so, F =mg *tan(theta)

the acceleration will be:

hence acc =force/total mass =mgtan(theta )/(m+M)

b) From the part a)

F =mg *tan(theta)

c)

F is the horizontal force
acc of each mass relative to table will be :
a= F/(M+m)

Related Questions

Navigate

• Browse (All)
• Browse A
• Subjects

Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.