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0. Math Review31m
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1. Intro to Physics Units1h 24m
2. 1D Motion / Kinematics3h 56m
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5. Projectile Motion3h 6m
6. Intro to Forces (Dynamics)3h 22m
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10. Conservation of Energy2h 54m
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34. Wave Optics1h 15m
35. Special Relativity2h 10m

6. Intro to Forces (Dynamics)

Vertical Forces & Acceleration

Physics

6. Intro to Forces (Dynamics)

Vertical Forces & Acceleration

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1:56 minutes

Problem 5c

Textbook Question

Two 25.0-N weights are suspended at opposite ends of a rope that passes over a light, frictionless pulley. The pulley is attached to a chain from the ceiling. (b) What is the tension in the chain?

Verified step by step guidance

Identify the forces acting on the system. Here, the forces include the gravitational force on each weight and the tension in the rope.

Understand that the pulley is frictionless and the rope is light, implying that the tension is the same throughout the rope.

Recognize that the system is in equilibrium, meaning the net force must be zero. Therefore, the tension in the rope equals the weight of one of the suspended weights.

Realize that the tension in the chain holding the pulley must support the entire system below it, which includes both weights.

Sum the tensions due to each weight to find the total tension in the chain. Since each side of the rope holds one weight, the tension in the chain will be twice the tension in the rope.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Tension in a Rope

Tension is the force transmitted through a rope or string when it is pulled tight by forces acting from opposite ends. In this scenario, the tension in the rope is equal to the weight of the objects suspended, assuming the system is in equilibrium. Since both weights are equal, the tension in the rope will be the same on both sides.

Equilibrium of Forces

An object is in equilibrium when the sum of the forces acting on it is zero. In this case, the two weights exert equal and opposite forces on the rope, resulting in no net force acting on the system. This principle allows us to analyze the forces to determine the tension in the chain supporting the pulley.

Pulley Systems

A pulley system consists of a wheel on an axle or shaft designed to support movement and change the direction of force. In this problem, the pulley is frictionless, meaning it does not add any additional forces to the system. This simplifies the analysis, as the tension in the chain will directly relate to the weights suspended on either side of the pulley.

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