What is the tension in a system of 2 pulleys when acceleration is 0?

In summary, to calculate the tension T for cases a, b, and c where acceleration is zero, we can use the equation mg - T = ma. For case a, we can simply add the weights of the bottom pulley and the weight being measured. In case b, the force is redirected by the pulley. And in case c, although two masses are balanced, only the tension of one mass is measured. In order to solve for T in these cases, we need to take into account the forces acting on the small pulley in the lower block and the direction of those forces.
  • #1
Member69383
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Homework Statement


Calculate the tension T in case a, b, and c if acceleration = 0.

Ws = weight of the bottom pulley
W = weight of the weight

Homework Equations


mg - T = m*a

The Attempt at a Solution



For a, it just seems like T = Ws + Wm since the bottom pulley is connected to the top pulley.

For b, the force is being redirected by the pulley.

For c, two masses are balanced along the pulley yet only the tension of one mass is measured.
 

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  • #2
Member69383 said:
For a, it just seems like T = Ws + Wm since the bottom pulley is connected to the top pulley.
Take a close look at the small pulley in the lower block. How many arrows point up from it? What force does each of those arrows represent?
 
  • #3
Just figured it out. Thanks!
 
Last edited:

FAQ: What is the tension in a system of 2 pulleys when acceleration is 0?

How does tension differ between two pulleys?

When two pulleys are connected by a belt or rope, the tension in the belt/rope is the same at any point along its length. This means that the tension in the two pulleys will be equal, regardless of their size or position.

How does the number of pulleys affect tension?

The more pulleys you have in a system, the less tension is required to lift an object. This is due to the distribution of weight and force across multiple pulleys, reducing the strain on each individual pulley.

What is the formula for calculating tension in a two pulley system?

The formula for calculating tension in a two pulley system is T = (m1 + m2) x g, where T is the total tension, m1 and m2 are the masses being lifted by the pulleys, and g is the acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s²).

How does the angle of the rope/belt affect tension in a two pulley system?

The angle of the rope/belt has a direct impact on the tension in a two pulley system. As the angle increases, the tension also increases. This is because the weight of the object being lifted is distributed across a shorter length of rope/belt, resulting in a greater force being applied to each pulley.

Can tension in a two pulley system ever be greater than the weight being lifted?

No, tension in a two pulley system can never be greater than the weight being lifted. The weight being lifted is the maximum amount of force that can be applied to the system, so the tension will always be equal to or less than the weight being lifted.

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