An object suspended by 2 strings

  • Thread starter crysland
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Strings
In summary, it is not possible for one or both angles to be zero when using two strings to suspend an object. This is because when both angles are zero, there is no vertical force present and the strings cannot hold the weight of the object. Additionally, having two horizontal strings is equivalent to having one string stretched between two walls, making it impossible to hold the weight of the object. However, when one string is horizontal and the other forms an angle with the horizontal, it is possible for the object to be suspended as there is a vertical force present.
  • #1
crysland
12
0
When two strings are used to suspend an object, is it possible for one or both of the angles to be zero (that is, one or both strings are horizontal to the ground) ? Why or why not? Deduce whether either of these scenarios is possible.

I say no, it's impossible but i really don't know how to explain this.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
What happens if both the angles are zero?
 
  • #3
the string is horizontal?
 
  • #4
So draw a free-body diagram for the situation and work out the tensions in the strings.

Repeat for a string the makes an angle ##\theta## to the horizontal and another string horizontal.
 
  • #5
When theta is 0, it means there's no force in the y direction.
 
  • #6
crysland said:
When theta is 0, it means there's no force in the y direction.
So... can the horizontal strings hold the mass up?
 
  • #7
No, it can't
 
  • #8
Which makes sense - two horizontal strings are basically just the one string stretched between two walls. IRL if you hang a mass off the middle, the string will no longer be horizontal - it gets a v shape.

Now do the free-body diagram thing again, but, this time, one string is horizontal and the other forms an arbitrary angle to the horizontal.
 

What is an object suspended by 2 strings?

An object suspended by 2 strings refers to a physical system where an object is attached to two separate strings or ropes that are connected to a fixed point above the object. This system allows the object to freely move and rotate in three dimensions.

What factors affect the motion of an object suspended by 2 strings?

The motion of an object suspended by 2 strings is affected by several factors, including the length and tension of the strings, the weight and shape of the object, and external forces such as air resistance or friction.

How does the angle between the strings affect the motion of the object?

The angle between the strings determines the direction of the force acting on the object. When the strings are parallel, the force is directed straight down, while a larger angle will result in a horizontal component of force. This can cause the object to move in a circular or elliptical path.

What is the difference between a simple pendulum and an object suspended by 2 strings?

A simple pendulum is a system where a single string is attached to a fixed point and a weight is attached at the other end. An object suspended by 2 strings is similar, but with two strings and a weight attached in the middle. The motion of the object in a simple pendulum is limited to one dimension, while an object suspended by 2 strings can move in three dimensions.

How can the motion of an object suspended by 2 strings be calculated?

The motion of an object suspended by 2 strings can be calculated using principles of physics, such as Newton's laws of motion and the equations of motion. Factors such as the length and tension of the strings, the weight of the object, and external forces must be taken into account to accurately calculate the motion.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
19
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
16
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
17
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
19
Views
5K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
14
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
Back
Top