Two blocks XXX (mass 10 kg) and YYY (mass 4 kg) are joined by a light inextensible string passing over a smooth pulley at the top of a fixed wedge. Block X X\,X rests on a smooth face inclined at 60∘ 60^\circ\,60∘ to the horizontal. Block Y Y\,Y rests on a rough face inclined at 30∘ 30^\circ\,30∘ to the horizontal. The coefficient of friction between block Y Y\,Y and the surface is 0.5. The system is released from rest with the string taut.
Find the tension in the string.
Find the acceleration of the system and the direction of travel.
Practise Edexcel A Level Maths Applications of Forces with exam-style questions for A Level Maths. 47 questions covering Static Particles, Modelling with Statics, Friction and Static Particles, Static Rigid Bodies, Dynamics and Inclined Planes, and Connected Particles 2, matched to the Edexcel A Level Maths (9MA0) specification and written in Paper 1, Paper 2 and Paper 3 style. Every question includes a full worked solution and mark scheme, so you can see where marks are awarded rather than just whether you got the answer right.