Calculate Tension in String for 1.49 kg Mass with 3.1 m/s2 Acceleration

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the tension in a string supporting a 1.49 kg mass that is accelerating upwards at 3.10 m/s². The original poster presents their approach using the equation of motion and gravitational force.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply the equation T = m(a + g) but encounters an issue with the calculated tension. Some participants suggest drawing a free body diagram to clarify the forces acting on the mass.

Discussion Status

Participants are exploring the reasoning behind the calculations and questioning the setup of the problem. There is acknowledgment of a potential misunderstanding regarding units, with some participants noting the importance of distinguishing between newtons and kilonewtons.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of a problem in the book that resembles this scenario, which may influence the interpretation of the equations used. The original poster expresses confusion over the feedback received regarding their answer.

Amel
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Homework Statement



A 1.49 kg mass is suspended from a string which is pulled upward. The mass accelerates upwards with an acceleration of 3.10 m/s2. What is the tension in the string?


Homework Equations



Fnet= T + Fg =ma

so

T = m(a + g)


The Attempt at a Solution



Ok so I pluged in the numbers

T = (1.49kg)(3.1m/s2+(9.89m/s2)

and I got 19.221 kN but its wrong.

The title for this is wrong I was going to ask another question originally.
 
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3.1 m/s^2 is accelerating the mass upwards. Ask yourself, what direction is the 9.81 m/s^2 acting in? Draw a free body diagram of the forces acting on the mass.

Thanks
Matt
 
I know gravity is downwards but there is a problem in the book just like this and this is how they get to that equation.

T + Fg = ma

so since Fg is negative

T - mg =ma

T = ma+mg

T = m(a+g)

I know that gravity was negative but that's why they added mg over to the other side.
 
Yes, sorry I looked right past that. Not sure where you went wrong then. Are you close to the correct answer?

Thanks
Matt
 
It just says 19.221 kN is wrong it doesen't tell me anything else. Are my units right? I don't get why I am getting this wrong.
 
The units are correct. N = kg*m/s^2.

Not sure why it isn't right. Maybe someone can help us both out. LOL

Thanks
Matt
 
I was getting it wrong because I was putting kN instead of N. I missed that the book converted their answer to kN, Thanks I needed to see N = kg*m/s^2 to catch my mistake.
 
LOL geeze I missed it too. Whoops.

Thanks
Matt
 

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