Tensions in Suspended Ball System: Solving for Horizontal and Angled Cords

In summary, the problem involves a ball weighing 100-N suspended from two cords, one horizontal and one angled. The goal is to find the tensions in the cords. Using the equation F=ma, and considering that the acceleration is 0, we can set up the equilibrium conditions in both the vertical and horizontal directions. Since tension forces act in the direction of the length of the cord, there can be no vertical component in the horizontal cord. This leads to the conclusion that the sum of all forces must be 0.
  • #1
EndOfMemories
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0

Homework Statement



A ball weighing 100-N is shown suspended from a system of cords. What are the tensions in the horizontal and angled cords?

Homework Equations



F=ma

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried to use F=ma but I couldn't go anywhere with the equation. I know that sum of Forces (tension, gravity, normal?) equals the mass X acceleration, and there is no acceleration. So the forces equal the mass? And I got stuck here.
 

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  • #2
Write down the forces acting on the ball and on the cords. Split the forces you get into x and y components.

You are correct in that F = ma. And there a is 0. So F = m*0 = 0. Sum of all forces should be 0 then.
 
  • #3
Hi EndOfMemories, welcome to PF.
Let T1 be the tension in the horizontal cord and T2 be the tension in the angled cord.
Resolve T2 into vertical and horizontal components and apply the equilibrium conditions.
 
  • #4
When an object is not in motion, there is no acceleration. Use Newton's first law in both the the y and x directions,where ax and ay are 0. . Note that tension forces always act in a direction pulling away from the object along the direction of the length of the cord, so there can be no vertical component of the tension in the horizontal cord.
 
  • #5
Thanks guys I got it now
 

1. How is the weight of a ball measured in Newtons?

The weight of an object, including a ball, is measured in Newtons using a scale or balance.

2. What is the mass of a ball weighing 100N?

The mass of a ball weighing 100N can vary depending on the type and density of the material it is made of. However, according to Newton's second law of motion, we can calculate the mass by dividing the weight (100N) by the acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s^2). In this case, the mass would be approximately 10.2 kg.

3. How does the weight of a ball affect its motion?

The weight of a ball can affect its motion by influencing its acceleration. According to Newton's second law of motion, the heavier the object (in this case, the ball), the more force is required to accelerate it. This means that a ball weighing 100N would require more force to move than a lighter ball.

4. Is there a difference between weight and mass?

Yes, there is a difference between weight and mass. Weight is a measure of the force exerted on an object by gravity, while mass is a measure of the amount of matter in an object. In other words, weight can change depending on the strength of gravity, but mass remains constant regardless of the location.

5. How does the weight of a ball change on different planets?

The weight of a ball would change on different planets because the strength of gravity is different on each planet. For example, on a planet with stronger gravity than Earth, the ball would weigh more than 100N. On a planet with weaker gravity, the ball would weigh less than 100N.

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