You are given that the coefficient of kinetic friction between the block and the table in Fig. 4.36 is 0.560, and m1 = 0.135 kg and m2 = 0.260 kg.

(a) What should m3 be if the system is to move with a constant speed?
(b) If m3 = 0.095 kg, what is the magnitude of the acceleration of the system? (Assume ideal conditions for the string and pulleys.)

Question

You are given that the coefficient of kinetic friction between the block and the table in Fig. 4.36 is 0.560, and m1 = 0.135 kg and m2 = 0.260 kg.

(a) What should m3 be if the system is to move with a constant speed?
(b) If m3 = 0.095 kg, what is the magnitude of the acceleration of the system? (Assume ideal conditions for the string and pulleys.)

anonymous · Answer

Do you have fig 4.36?

anonymous · Answer

I can't fully answer without seeing the diagram, but I'm going to assume it's some sort of a pulley system. 
For a, if the system is moving at a constant speed, there's no acceleration, so F=ma=m*0=0. All of the forces must equal zero.