Unit 2 · Force and Translational Dynamics

Chapter 2.3

Newton's Second Law and Connected Systems

Chain an empty cart behind a loaded one and push: the two feel very different net forces yet share one acceleration. Which system do you write the law for?

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By the end

  1. 01Relate net external force to center-of-mass acceleration on flat and inclined surfaces
  2. 02Solve connected systems — pulleys, stacked and towed objects — for the whole system and for one part
  3. 03Explain how forces can balance along one axis while the object accelerates along another

In unit 2

  1. 2.1Systems, the Center of Mass, and Free-Body Diagrams
  2. 2.2Newton's Third Law, Tension, and Equilibrium
  3. 2.3Newton's Second Law and Connected Systems
  4. 2.4Gravitation, Weight, and Apparent Weight
  5. 2.5Friction and Spring Forces
  6. 2.6Circular Motion and Circular Orbits
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