Calculating Torque on a Pulley: Simple Theory and Homework Practice

  • Thread starter Thread starter Hockeystar
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Theory Torque
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating torque on a frictionless pulley system using the formula Torque = Force times Radius. Participants clarify that the torque is influenced by both the gravitational force of the hanging weight and the tension in the rope. To accurately determine the torque, one must apply free body diagrams and Newton's 2nd law to ascertain the system's acceleration before calculating the torque. This method ensures a comprehensive understanding of the forces at play in the pulley system.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's 2nd law
  • Familiarity with free body diagrams
  • Basic knowledge of torque calculations
  • Concept of tension in a rope
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of Newton's 2nd law in pulley systems
  • Learn how to draw and interpret free body diagrams
  • Explore advanced torque calculations in complex systems
  • Investigate the effects of friction on torque in pulley systems
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, educators, and anyone interested in mechanics, particularly those studying torque and pulley systems in classical mechanics.

Hockeystar
Messages
61
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


Lets say I have a the generic pulley setup with no friction

http://img.sparknotes.com/content/testprep/bookimgs/sat2/physics/0014/tablewpulleyFBD.gif

How would I calculate the Torque on the pulley?


Homework Equations



Torque = Force times Radius

The Attempt at a Solution



Would the torque simply be the torque caused by gravity of the free hanging weight or do I have to take the force of tension into account?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Use the free body diagrams and Newton's 2nd law to find the acceleration of the system. Then you can find the torque.
 
Thank You.
 

Similar threads

Replies
15
Views
2K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
5K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
  • · Replies 30 ·
2
Replies
30
Views
4K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
1K