Understanding and Solving Tensions in Physics for Students

  • Context: High School 
  • Thread starter Thread starter lurch0038
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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on understanding tension in physics, specifically in scenarios involving objects suspended by multiple strings. The example provided involves a picture hanging from two strings, with known tension in one string (1.7N) and angles of 65 degrees and 32 degrees for the respective strings. Participants are encouraged to analyze the forces acting on the picture to determine the tension in the second string and the weight of the picture. Key calculations involve resolving the tension components using trigonometric functions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Basic knowledge of trigonometric functions
  • Familiarity with vector resolution in physics
  • Ability to set up equilibrium equations for static systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Study vector resolution techniques in physics
  • Learn how to apply Newton's second law to static equilibrium problems
  • Practice solving tension problems with multiple strings
  • Explore the concept of force diagrams and free-body diagrams
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and tension problems, as well as educators looking for effective teaching strategies in explaining forces and equilibrium.

lurch0038
I have having difficulty with tensions. Can someone give a good explanation of how they work and what are some rules to solve the problems I have for homework.

Here is one example of a problem:

A picture hangs on the wall suspended by two strings as seen in the figure 6-20(see below for a written explanation). The tension in string one is 1.7N. (a) is the tension in string 2 greater than, less than or equal to 1.7N (explain) (b)verify your answer by calculating the tension on in string 2 (c) what is the weight of the picture?

In the example there is a pictrue hanging in the middle of two strings, one string string one in 65degrees above the -X axis and string 2 is 32degrees above the X axis.

Here is what I have done:

T1x = 1.7(-cos115degrees)
T1y = 1.7(sin115 degrees)
and that is it...HELP!
 
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sorry about the post, I will post this in the homework section...thanks
 

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