Stuck on Tension on a Hanging Massive Rope

In summary, tension is a force that is exerted on an object, such as a hanging rope, by another object. The mass of the rope directly affects the tension, with a heavier rope exerting more force and causing more stretching and instability. Factors such as being pulled too tight or being twisted or tangled can cause a rope to become stuck on tension. To release tension, a pulley system, counterbalancing, or untangling may be used. Tension on a hanging rope can be dangerous if not properly managed and it is important to handle it with caution to avoid injury.
  • #1
disruptors
17
1
Consider a rope with length l and mass per unit length (lambda), hanging vertically. Let y refer to the height of a point P above the bottom of the rope.

What is the tension at point P in the rope?

Thanks a lot ppl...

I know the answer should include y but not sure in what way...
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #3


The tension at point P in the rope can be calculated using the equation T = lambda * g * y, where T is the tension, lambda is the mass per unit length, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and y is the height of point P above the bottom of the rope. This equation takes into account the weight of the rope and the force of gravity acting on it at the specific point P. As the height y increases, the tension at point P will also increase, since there is more weight of the rope pulling down on that point. Similarly, as the height y decreases, the tension at point P will decrease. It is important to note that the tension at any point in the rope will be equal and opposite to the force of gravity acting on that point. Therefore, the tension at point P can also be calculated using the equation T = mg, where m is the mass of the rope and g is the acceleration due to gravity. This equation is essentially the same as the first equation, but it does not take into account the variable height y. Both equations can be used to determine the tension at point P in the hanging rope.
 

1. What is tension and how does it affect a hanging rope?

Tension is a force that is exerted on an object by another object. In the case of a hanging rope, the tension is caused by the weight of the rope itself pulling down on the support point. This tension can cause the rope to stretch and can also affect its stability.

2. How does the mass of the rope affect the tension?

The mass of the rope has a direct impact on the tension. A heavier rope will exert more force due to its weight, resulting in a higher tension. This can cause the rope to stretch more and can also make it more difficult to support.

3. What factors can cause a rope to become stuck on tension?

There are several factors that can cause a rope to become stuck on tension. One common cause is when the rope is pulled too tight, causing it to become taut and difficult to move. Another factor is when the rope is twisted or tangled, making it harder to release the tension.

4. How can tension be released from a hanging rope?

There are a few methods for releasing tension from a hanging rope. One option is to use a pulley system to distribute the tension and make it easier to release. Another method is to use a weight to counterbalance the tension and loosen the rope. In some cases, simply untangling or straightening the rope can also help release the tension.

5. Can tension on a hanging rope be dangerous?

Yes, tension on a hanging rope can be dangerous if not properly managed. Too much tension can cause the rope to snap or break, potentially causing injury to anyone nearby. It is important to handle tension on a hanging rope with caution and use proper techniques to release it safely.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
11
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
2
Replies
39
Views
4K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
13
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
8K
Replies
15
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
7K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
22
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
25
Views
4K
Back
Top