The \( 5.8 \, \text{kg} \) mass descends, pulling the \( 3.8 \, \text{kg} \) block against friction and
the opposing force.
For \( 5.8 \, \text{kg} \): \( 5.8g - T = 5.8a \Rightarrow 58 - T = 5.8a \).
For \( 3.8 \, \text{kg} \): \( T - f_k - 14 = 3.8a \).
Normal: \( N = mg = 3.8 \times 10 = 38 \, \text{N} \).
Friction: \( f_k = 0.25 \times 38 = 9.5 \, \text{N} \).
Net force: \( T - 9.5 - 14 = 3.8a \Rightarrow T - 23.5 = 3.8a \).
Solve: \( 58 - T = 5.8a \), \( T - 23.5 = 3.8a \).
Substitute: \( 58 - (3.8a + 23.5) = 5.8a \Rightarrow 58 - 23.5 - 3.8a = 5.8a \Rightarrow 34.5 = 9.6a \).
\( a = \frac{34.5}{9.6} \approx 3.59 \, \text{m/s}^2 \).