Calculating Tension Ratios for Equilibrium of Identical Bodies

[kastamonu]

Homework Statement

Identical K,L and M bodies with a weight of P are in equilibrium . If the tension in the rope S1 is T1 and S2 is T2, then what is the ratio T1/T2? (The picture is below)

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

T1 equals P. But I am stuck with T2. I cannot decide whether it is 2P or 3P. Do we have to add the weight of K to T2? If we add, it will be 3P.

 

[HallsofIvy]

S₂ is the uppermost vertical string and so must support all of the weight. Its tension will be 3P.

 

[kastamonu]

Then the answer is 1/3.But according to my book the answer is 1/2.

 

[kastamonu]

the pulley is attached to a rigid support.T2 has a weight of 2P

 

[Coelum]

Let us call A the node above K and B the node above L. Let us assume that the angle between a horizontal line and the rope connecting A to B is 45 degrees (without this value you cannot compute a solution). Then you only have to write the equilibrium conditions at nodes A (first) and B (second).
The ratio is 1/2.

 

[kastamonu]

Many Thanks