Applied Force Vs. tension Force

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the dynamics of tension and applied force in a scenario involving two boxes (Box A: 850 N, Box B: 750 N) connected by a rope on a horizontal surface with friction. The key conclusion is that the tension in the rope counteracts the friction force, which must be overcome for the boxes to move. When the applied force exceeds the frictional force, the excess force contributes to the acceleration of the boxes. Understanding these relationships is crucial for solving problems involving tension and applied forces in physics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Knowledge of friction coefficients and their calculations
  • Familiarity with tension in ropes and cables
  • Basic principles of force diagrams and free-body diagrams
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the concept of friction force and its calculation using coefficients
  • Learn how to draw and analyze free-body diagrams for multiple objects
  • Explore the relationship between applied force, tension, and acceleration in physics
  • Investigate real-world applications of tension and applied forces in mechanical systems
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of force dynamics, particularly in scenarios involving tension and friction in mechanical systems.

enantiomer1
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Homework Statement


hey just having a hard time figuring out a question about tension and applied force:
A dock worker pulls two boxes connected by a rope on a horizontal floor, as shown in the figure (Intro 1 figure) . All the ropes are horizontal, and there is some friction with the floor.
the boxes are 850 N (A) and 750 N (B) respectively, all I need to know is direction of applied force and tension force on Box B
I think it should look something like <----Friction force (Box B) ----->Tension and Applied force
but some how I don't think that's right
 
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Friction is the maximum force needed to overcome the resistance to sliding. If you don't pull enough to overcome the resistance as given by the coefficient times the weight, then of course it doesn't move. And the tension of the rope is completely balanced by the friction.

So if you are pulling on a rope then the tension in the rope is against the friction, and of course in the event you get it to moving then, the excess would go into accelerating the motion of the mass of the box after that.
 

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