Mechanics: Vectors and Forces in 2-D

Vectors and Forces in 2-D: Audio Guided Solution

Extra Problem 1:

Two blocks are held together by a rope and attached to the ceiling of an elevator by a second rope (see diagram). The mass of the top block is 14.0 kg; the mass of the bottom block is 10.4 kg. The elevator accelerates upwards at 2.84 m/s/s. Find the tension (in Newtons) in the top rope (connecting points A and B).
 

 




 

Audio Guided Solution




Habits of an Effective Problem Solver

An effective problem solver by habit approaches a physics problem in a manner that reflects a collection of disciplined habits. An effective problem-solver...

  • ... read the problem carefully and develop a mental picture of the physical situation. If necessary, sketch a simple diagram of the physical situation to help you visualize it.
  • ... identifies the known and unknown quantities in an organized manner, equating given values to the symbols used to represent the corresponding quantity - e.g., m = 1.25 kg, µ = 0.459, vo = 0.0 m/s,  Ø = 41.6º, vf = ???.
  • ... uses physics formulas and conceptual reasoning to plot a strategy for solving for the unknown quantity.
  • ... identifies the appropriate formula(s) to use.
  • ... performs substitutions and algebraic manipulations in order to solve for the unknown quantity.


Read About It!

Get more information on the topic of Vectors and Motion in Two Dimensions at The Physics Classroom Tutorial.


Return to Original Problem Set

Return to Index of Extra Problems

Return to Overview