CAIE M1 2017 November — Question 7

Exam BoardCAIE
ModuleM1 (Mechanics 1)
Year2017
SessionNovember
TopicPulley systems

7
\includegraphics[max width=\textwidth, alt={}, center]{db1b5f31-1a41-44dd-ae9a-0c67336997eb-10_212_1029_255_557} Two particles \(A\) and \(B\) of masses 0.9 kg and 0.4 kg respectively are attached to the ends of a light inextensible string. The string passes over a fixed smooth pulley which is attached to the top of two inclined planes. The particles are initially at rest with \(A\) on a smooth plane inclined at angle \(\theta ^ { \circ }\) to the horizontal and \(B\) on a plane inclined at angle \(25 ^ { \circ }\) to the horizontal. The string is taut and the particles can move on lines of greatest slope of the two planes. A force of magnitude 2.5 N is applied to \(B\) acting down the plane (see diagram).
  1. For the case where \(\theta = 15\) and the plane on which \(B\) rests is smooth, find the acceleration of \(B\).
  2. For a different value of \(\theta\), the plane on which \(B\) rests is rough with coefficient of friction between the plane and \(B\) of 0.8 . The system is in limiting equilibrium with \(B\) on the point of moving in the direction of the 2.5 N force. Find the value of \(\theta\).