Kinematics: Understanding Tension in Strings

In summary, when learning about kinematics and solving equations using free body diagrams, it is important to remember that we are tracking the forces attacking each individual object separately. This means that when solving for T1, the force needed to keep mass1 in equilibrium, we must also include the forces attacking mass1, which are the two tensions and its own weight. Similarly, when solving for T2, the force needed to keep mass2 in equilibrium, we must include the forces attacking mass2, which is simply its own weight.
  • #1
sambarbarian
68
0
I am trying to self learn kinematics , but i don't understand a certain concept :-


If a string hold a mass which in turn holds another mass by a string.

by F.B.D to in forming the first equation , we take T1 = m1g +t2

but shouldn't the second mass be included as well.

eg. if we are hanging something with a thread and someone hangs another string and mass to it , the strain on the first string is increases .

I am sorry for the vague outline i could give , hope you can understand it .
 
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  • #2
Wouldn't that be included in the expression for T2?

T1 is the force needed to keep mass1 in equilibrium.
The forces actually "attacking" mass1 are the two tensions and its own weight.

T1 must be equal to, and oppositely directed to the sum of the two other forces attacking mass1.
------

Thus, when you do this problem, always keep in mind that we are tracking the forces attacking some material OBJECT, and we set up our equations for each object SEPARATELY.

Thus, you will ALSO have the equation:
T2=m2g, in order to keep mass2 in equilibrium.
 

1. What is kinematics?

Kinematics is the branch of physics that studies the motion of objects without considering the causes of the motion. It involves understanding concepts such as displacement, velocity, and acceleration.

2. How does tension in strings affect motion?

Tension in strings can affect motion by either accelerating or decelerating an object. When a string is pulled with a certain tension, it can cause an object to move in a certain direction or change its speed.

3. What factors determine the tension in a string?

The tension in a string is determined by the magnitude of the force applied to the string, the length of the string, and the properties of the string such as its material and thickness.

4. How does the angle of the string affect tension?

The angle of the string can affect the tension by changing the direction of the force applied to the string. The greater the angle, the more the force is directed perpendicular to the string, resulting in a higher tension.

5. How can understanding tension in strings be useful?

Understanding tension in strings is useful in various fields such as engineering, sports, and music. It can help in designing structures that can withstand certain forces, calculating the trajectory of objects in sports, and tuning musical instruments.

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