Find the Tension in the cable when the lift is moving at constant speed

In summary, when a lift moves at constant speed, the tension in the cable is equal to the weight of the lift and its load. This is because, at constant speed, the net force acting on the lift is zero, meaning that the upward force (tension) balances the downward force (weight). Therefore, to find the tension in the cable, one must calculate the total weight of the lift and its contents using the formula T = mg, where T is tension, m is mass, and g is the acceleration due to gravity.
  • #1
chwala
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Homework Statement
The maximum load that a lift of mass ##600## kg can hold is ##450##kg. Find the tension in the cable when the lift is holding a maximum load and is moving at a constant speed of ##3## m/s
Relevant Equations
Vertical motion - Mechanics.
aaaah just realized the solution after typing here...

... at constant speed, ##a=0##,

therefore

##T-mg = 0##

##T=(1050 × 10) =10, 500## Newtons

or any insight...welcome.



Maybe i should ask...when the lift is moving downwards and there is deceleration then would the Tension be treated in the same manner as moving upwards with acceleration?

Would the equation below apply to both scenario?

##T-mg = ma## ?

Cheers.
 
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  • #2
With a reference direction of up is positive, then if it is moving down (negative) a positive acceleration will result in it slowing down (decelerate).
 
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  • #3
Rather than saying T - mg, I would consider them as vectors, since g is down it is negative. Then you have: ma = T+ mg
 
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  • #4
chwala said:
Maybe i should ask...when the lift is moving downwards and there is deceleration then would the Tension be treated in the same manner as moving upwards with acceleration?
What do you think? Why?

chwala said:
Would the equation below apply to both scenario?

##T-mg = ma## ?
What do you think? Why?

This approach to "learning" where you guess answers and seek confirmation from others is not learning at all: reasoning things out for yourself is an essential part of learning. That is why we ask you to show your workings.
 
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