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2 Particle Dynamics
2.2 Problems
2.2.1 Motion of Blocks on a Plane
2.1 Three blocks of mass m 1 , m 2 and m 3 interconnected by cords are pulled by a
constant force F on a frictionless horizontal table, Fig. 2.1. Find
(a) Common acceleration ‘a’
(b) Tensions T 1 and T 2
Fig. 2.1
2.2 A block of mass M on a rough horizontal table is driven by another block of
mass m connected by a thread passing over a frictionless pulley. Assuming
that the coefficient of friction between the mass M and the table is μ, find
(a) acceleration of the masses (b) tension in the thread (Fig. 2.2).
Fig. 2.2
2.3 A block of mass m 1 sits on a block of mass m 2 , which rests on a smooth table,
Fig. 2.3. If the coefficient of friction between the blocks is μ, find the maximum
force that can be applied to m 2 so that m 1 may not slide.
Fig. 2.3
2.4 Two blocks m 1 and m 2 are in contact on a frictionless table. A horizontal force
F is applied to the block m 1 , Fig. 2.4. (a) Find the force of contact between
the blocks. (b) Find the force of contact between the blocks if the same force is
applied to m 2 rather than to m 1 , Fig. 2.5.
Fig. 2.4