Solving for Tension with a massless cord

In summary, the tension in each cord is the same and equal to the weight of the bucket below it when the buckets are at rest. When the buckets are pulled upward with an acceleration of 1.30m/s2, the tension in each cord is equal to the sum of the weight of the bucket below it and the product of its mass and the acceleration.
  • #1
sarahmichelle
1
0

Homework Statement


One 2.0kg paint bucket is hanging by a massless cord from another 2.0 kg bucket, also hanging by a massless cord.

a) If the buckets are at rest, what is the tension of each cord?
b) If the two buckets are pulled upward with an acceleration of 1.30m/s2 by the upper cord, calculate the tension in each cord.

Homework Equations


F=ma

The Attempt at a Solution


Don't know where to start :(
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
To start, draw a picture of what is going on to help you organize your thoughts. F=ma would be a relevant equation.
 
  • #3
Draw a free body diagram of each can separately.
 

FAQ: Solving for Tension with a massless cord

1. What is tension in a massless cord?

Tension is the pulling force exerted by a massless cord. It is the same throughout the entire length of the cord and is always directed away from the object to which it is attached.

2. Why is a massless cord used in tension calculations?

A massless cord is used because its weight is negligible and does not affect the tension calculations. This simplifies the equations and makes them easier to solve.

3. How is tension calculated in a massless cord system?

Tension is calculated by using Newton's Second Law, which states that the net force acting on an object is equal to its mass multiplied by its acceleration. In the case of a massless cord, the net force is equal to the tension in the cord.

4. What are some real-life applications of solving for tension with a massless cord?

Solving for tension with a massless cord is useful in various engineering and physics applications. For example, it can be used to calculate the tension in a rope holding a hanging object, the tension in a cable supporting a bridge, or the tension in a string of a musical instrument.

5. Can tension in a massless cord ever be greater than the weight of the object it is supporting?

No, tension in a massless cord can never be greater than the weight of the object it is supporting. This is because the tension is created by the weight of the object and any additional force would result in acceleration, which violates the assumption that the cord is massless.

Similar threads

Tension Problems Given Two Weights
Replies
4
Views
2K
Newton's laws with buckets and strings
Replies
2
Views
2K
Newtonian Mechanics/Forces Question
Replies
4
Views
1K
Findin buckets' tension when there are two strings n two buckets
Replies
2
Views
5K
What is the tension in each cord?
Replies
3
Views
2K
How Do You Calculate Tension in a Dual Hanging Bucket System?
Replies
2
Views
4K
How do I find acceleration and tension on an inclined plane
Replies
1
Views
2K
Question on force applied to an object hanging from a cord
Replies
11
Views
2K
If the buckets are at rest what is the tension in each cord?
Replies
4
Views
31K
Solving the Tension in Two Hanging Paint Buckets
Replies
3
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top