Understanding Tension, Weight, and Forces: A Scientific Inquiry

In summary, the conversation discusses the equation T=m(g-a) in relation to the sum of forces acting on an object. It is mentioned that T=m(g+a) may also be a valid equation, depending on the orientations of g and a. The concept of using absolute values for a and g is also brought up.
  • #1
soljaragz
15
0
There is a problem I am looking at and in its explanations for the answer it says

"...We know the sum of forces acting on m is T-mg which is equal to ma. Therefore, T=m(g-a)..."

um...Shouldn't T=m(g+a)?
 
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  • #2
soljaragz said:
There is a problem I am looking at and in its explanations for the answer it says

"...We know the sum of forces acting on m is T-mg which is equal to ma. Therefore, T=m(g-a)..."

um...Shouldn't T=m(g+a)?
Yes, provided the signs of g and a are opposite. This is explicit in T = m(g-a), where g and a are the magnitudes of the vectors [itex]\vec{g} \text{ and } \vec{a}[/itex].

AM
 
  • #3
Doesn't make sense to me. a should be oriented so that + is in the direction of the tension and - is in the direction of gravity. It shouldn't be an absolute value. Anyway if they want to use it as an absolute value in the second part they should have been doing that in the first part.
 

FAQ: Understanding Tension, Weight, and Forces: A Scientific Inquiry

What is tension?

Tension is a force that is transmitted through a string, rope, cable, or wire when it is pulled tight by forces acting from opposite ends. It is a pulling force that acts along the length of the object and is typically measured in newtons (N).

How is tension different from weight?

Tension is a pulling force, while weight is a force that is exerted by an object due to gravity. Tension can be present even when an object is not affected by gravity, whereas weight is always dependent on the object's mass and the strength of the gravitational field it is in.

How is tension related to forces?

Tension is a type of force that is caused by the application of other forces. For example, when an object is suspended from a rope, the tension in the rope is caused by the weight of the object pulling down. Tension can also be caused by other forces, such as friction or air resistance.

How does tension affect an object?

Tension can have various effects on an object, depending on the magnitude and direction of the force. In some cases, tension can cause an object to stretch or deform, while in other cases it can maintain the shape and stability of an object. Tension can also cause an object to accelerate if the force is strong enough.

How can tension be calculated?

Tension can be calculated by multiplying the mass of an object by its acceleration, or by using the formula T = F * sin(theta), where T is tension, F is the applied force, and theta is the angle between the force and the direction of the object. Tension can also be measured using a tension meter or by using the equation T = k * L, where k is the spring constant and L is the length of the stretched spring.

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