Solving Tension: Helicopter Lifts 2 Crates

  • Thread starter lalahelp
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In summary, the conversation discusses a problem involving a helicopter lifting two crates with different masses attached by two cables. The tension in each cable is calculated using Newton's 2nd law and the acceleration of the helicopter. The final answers for the tension in each cable are 836 N for the second crate and 2156 N for the first crate.
  • #1
lalahelp
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Homework Statement



A helicopter is lifting two crates simultaneously. One crate with a mass of 120 kg is attached to the helicopter by cable A. The second crate with a mass of 76 kg is hanging below the first crate and attached to the first crate by cable B. As the helicopter accelerates upward at a rate of 1.2 m/s2, what is the tension in each of the two cables?


I don't understand how to solve this at all can you please help ??
 
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  • #2
Draw a free body diagram for each crate. What forces act on each? Then apply Newton's 2nd law.
 
  • #3
-mg+Tb=ma
76(1.2+9.8)= 836 N For Crate B

Ta=ma+mg+836
=120(1.2+9.8)+836
=2156 N

Are these answers correct?
 
  • #4
lalahelp said:
-mg+Tb=ma
76(1.2+9.8)= 836 N For Crate B

Ta=ma+mg+836
=120(1.2+9.8)+836
=2156 N

Are these answers correct?
Yes! :approve:
 
  • #5
Thank you!
 

Related to Solving Tension: Helicopter Lifts 2 Crates

1. How does a helicopter lift two crates at once?

A helicopter can lift two crates at once by using a special device called a "cargo hook". This hook is attached to the bottom of the helicopter and can hold multiple crates at the same time. The pilot then uses the helicopter's lifting power to raise the crates off the ground.

2. What is the maximum weight that a helicopter can lift?

The maximum weight that a helicopter can lift depends on the type and size of the helicopter. On average, a medium-sized helicopter can lift up to 3,000 pounds, while larger helicopters can lift up to 20,000 pounds. However, the weight limit can also vary based on factors such as altitude and weather conditions.

3. How does the pilot maintain balance while lifting two crates?

The pilot maintains balance while lifting two crates by using the helicopter's cyclic and collective controls. These controls allow the pilot to adjust the angle and direction of the rotors to maintain stability. The pilot also needs to constantly monitor the weight and distribution of the crates to ensure proper balance.

4. What happens if one of the crates becomes unbalanced during the lift?

If one of the crates becomes unbalanced during the lift, it can cause the helicopter to tilt and potentially lose control. To prevent this, the pilot must constantly monitor the weight and distribution of the crates. If an imbalance occurs, the pilot may need to adjust the angle or direction of the rotors to regain balance.

5. Can a helicopter lift more than two crates at once?

Yes, depending on the size and lifting capacity of the helicopter, it is possible for a helicopter to lift more than two crates at once. However, the pilot must ensure that the weight and distribution of the crates are properly balanced to maintain control and stability during the lift.

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