What is the tension force of the rope in this physics problem?

  • Thread starter Thread starter F|reWa||
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Physics
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the tension force of a rope in two physics problems. The first problem involves a 100-pound weight on a 30-degree ramp with a coefficient of friction (µ) of 0.35. The solution requires breaking the gravitational force into parallel and perpendicular components, calculating the friction force, and then determining the tension. The second problem addresses a jet plane's climb angle and distance flown, suggesting the use of trigonometric functions and exact values for accurate calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts such as forces and friction.
  • Knowledge of trigonometric functions including sine, cosine, and tangent.
  • Ability to resolve forces into components.
  • Familiarity with the concept of limiting static friction.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of force resolution in physics problems.
  • Learn how to apply trigonometric functions in real-world scenarios.
  • Explore the concept of static friction and its applications in mechanics.
  • Practice solving problems involving inclined planes and tension forces.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in solving problems related to forces and motion in real-world applications.

F|reWa||
I am totally stuck on these two and I would like to know how to do this problem:

1. A 100 pound weight is resting on a 30 degree ramp with a coefficient of friction µ = 0.35 and is restrained by a rope. What is the tension force of the rope?

Sin 30 degrees = 0.5
Cos 30 degrees = 0.866
Tan 30 degrees = 0.577

2. A jet plane is climbing at a constant airspeed in no-wind conditions. The plane takes off from sea level. The plane is directly over a point on the ground that is 4 statute miles (21,120 ft) from the takeoff point and the altimeter reads 15,840 ft. Find the tangent of the climb angle and the distance that it has flown through the air.

Thanks :)

-AML
 
Physics news on Phys.org
For problem 1, break the gravitational force into two components - one parallel to the plane and one perpendecular. Friction force is calculated from the perpendicular component. Subtract the friction force from the parallel component of the weight.

For problem 2, draw a triangle and solve it.
 
Also, it's generally better in such problems to use the exact values if possible, and round up later. eg. sin 30 = 0.5 , cos 30 = 0.5 * [squ]3, tan 30 = 1/([squ]3)

However, the question as you gave it is not entirely correct. The coefficient of friction gives the limiting static friction of the two surfaces. You cannot use F = [mu] R unless you assume friction is at limiting. But that's a minor point. It probably doesn't matter.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 22 ·
Replies
22
Views
8K
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
22
Views
4K
Replies
5
Views
4K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
5K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
6K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
4K
Replies
7
Views
3K