The Figure Shows a System Consisting of Three Blocks, a Light

question 31

Short Answer

The figure shows a system consisting of three blocks, a light frictionless pulley, and light connecting ropes that act horizontally on the upper two blocks. The 9.0-kg block is on a perfectly smooth horizontal table. The surfaces of the 12-kg block are rough, with µ_k = 0.30 between the 12-kg and 9.0-kg blocks. The mass M of the hanging block is set so that it descends at a constant velocity of 3.25 m/s.
(a)What is the mass M of the hanging block?
(b)The mass M is now changed to 5.0 kg, causing it to accelerate downward after it is released. What is the acceleration of the hanging mass?

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Definitions:

Capricious

Characterized by unpredictable changes of mood or behavior, often leading to sudden and seemingly reasonless actions or decisions.

John Dewey

An American philosopher, psychologist, and educational reformer whose ideas have been influential in education and social reform.

Democratic Decision Making

A decision-making process where all members of a group or society have an equal opportunity to participate, typically characterized by voting or consensus.