Calculate Tension: Mass, Examples, How To

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In summary, the conversation is about calculating tension in a system, specifically in the case of a mass held up by two strings. The recommended approach is to resolve forces horizontally and vertically and use simultaneous equations to solve for the mass. It is suggested to read a basic textbook on physics or mechanics for a conceptual understanding and mathematical familiarity. The website www.lightandmatter.com is also recommended for assistance. A pulley system is mentioned as an example.
  • #1
preet
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Can anyone direct me to a website or something that deals with tension, some examples and how to calculate it? I don't get it... like if you have a mass held up by two strings what information do you need to calculate the mass, and how do you go about doing it? Thanks!
 
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  • #2
If the system is in equilibrium, then you just need to resolve forces horizontally and vertically and then that will give you a set of simultaneous equations to solve.
 
  • #3
You should probably consider reading a very elementary textbook on general physics (or mechanics such as Resnick and Halliday/Sears+Zemansky, etc.) There are websites on the internet but all you need is a proper conceptual understanding of Newton's Laws and (in some cases) a certain degree of mathematical familiarity with things like simultaneous equations, algebra and calculus. Have a look at www.lightandmatter.com for some help.
 
  • #4
Are you talking about a pulley system?

If you have acceleration, you can create two forces equations for both masses. Then you add them (or w/e else u want) to equate them and solve for m2.
 

1. What is tension?

Tension is a force that occurs when an object is pulled or stretched. It is measured in units of newtons (N).

2. How do you calculate tension?

To calculate tension, you need to know the mass of the object and the acceleration due to gravity. The formula for tension is: T = mg, where T is the tension, m is the mass, and g is the acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s² on Earth).

3. Can you provide an example of calculating tension?

Let's say you have a mass of 5 kg. To calculate the tension, you would multiply the mass (5 kg) by the acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s²) to get a tension of 49 N.

4. What are some real-life examples of tension?

There are many examples of tension in everyday life, such as when you pull a rubber band, stretch a spring, or lift an object with a rope. Tension is also present in structures like bridges and cranes, where the weight of the structure creates tension in the supporting cables.

5. Is there a specific method for calculating tension?

Yes, the method for calculating tension is to use the formula T = mg, where T is the tension, m is the mass, and g is the acceleration due to gravity. Make sure to use consistent units (e.g. kilograms for mass and meters per second squared for acceleration) to get an accurate result.

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