Direction of Tension: How to Determine & Why Downward?

In summary, tension and compression are opposing forces that can act in different directions depending on one's standpoint. In the case of determining the direction of tension, one can imagine themselves as the junction point and visualize whether the tension is pulling them down or pushing them up. In this particular scenario, the tensions in BC and BD act upward on the girder at C and D, but downward on the junction B. This is because the junction B is holding all the wires together and the tension in the wires is pulling it downwards.
  • #1
werson tan
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Homework Statement


how to determine the direction of tension ? why it acted in downward direction ? wy not in upward direction ?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

 

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  • #2
Tension and compression are better regarded as pairs of opposite forces rather than as a single force. Which way they act depends on your standpoint. If you pull on a rope, you feel as though the tension is pulling you, but the rope feels as though both ends are pulling on it.
 
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  • #3
haruspex said:
Tension and compression are better regarded as pairs of opposite forces rather than as a single force. Which way they act depends on your standpoint. If you pull on a rope, you feel as though the tension is pulling you, but the rope feels as though both ends are pulling on it.
well, i still dotn understand , can you explain based on the question ?
 
  • #4
werson tan said:
well, i still dotn understand , can you explain based on the question ?
The tensions in BC, BD act upward on the girder at C and D but downward on the junction B.
 
  • #5
haruspex said:
The tensions in BC, BD act upward on the girder at C and D but downward on the junction B.
why they will act downward on the junction B.
 
  • #6
werson tan said:
why they will act downward on the junction B.
Imagine yourself as junction B, i.e. you are holding the two wires BC and BD, and holding a third wire going up to some support above you. You alone are holding it all together. Are the wires BC and BD pulling you down or pushing you up?
 
  • #7
haruspex said:
Imagine yourself as junction B, i.e. you are holding the two wires BC and BD, and holding a third wire going up to some support above you. You alone are holding it all together. Are the wires BC and BD pulling you down or pushing you up?
yes
 
  • #8
werson tan said:
yes
tats how the direction of tension it is ?
 
  • #9
werson tan said:
yes
Yes which, down or up
 

1. What is tension and why is it important to determine its direction?

Tension is the force that pulls or stretches an object. It is important to determine its direction because it affects the stability and structural integrity of the object. Knowing the direction of tension is crucial in designing and constructing safe and sturdy structures.

2. How can the direction of tension be determined?

The direction of tension can be determined by analyzing the forces acting on the object and identifying the direction of the force that is pulling or stretching the object. This can be done through mathematical calculations or physical experiments.

3. What factors affect the direction of tension?

The direction of tension can be affected by various factors such as the shape and size of the object, the materials used, and the external forces acting on the object. The direction of tension can also change when the object is under different conditions, such as temperature or pressure.

4. Why is downward tension more common than upward tension?

Downward tension is more common because of gravity. Gravity pulls objects towards the center of the Earth, causing them to exert downward tension. Additionally, most structures are designed to withstand the weight of objects on top of them, which also creates downward tension.

5. How does knowing the direction of tension impact the design of structures?

Knowing the direction of tension is crucial in designing structures because it helps determine the type and amount of materials needed to withstand the forces acting on the structure. It also allows engineers to anticipate potential weak points and reinforce them accordingly, ensuring the safety and stability of the structure.

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