Find the Difference in Tension: Steel Cable & 20kg Block

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the difference in tension between two ends of a steel cable dragging a 20.0 kg block across a frictionless surface under a 90.0 N force. The acceleration of the block is determined to be 1.5 m/s², leading to a net force calculation of 60 N for the cable. The final tension difference is calculated as 30 N. Participants suggest using a free body diagram (FBD) for clearer understanding of forces acting on the block and cable.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's Second Law (F=ma)
  • Basic knowledge of acceleration calculations (a=v/t)
  • Familiarity with free body diagrams (FBD)
  • Concept of net force in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of Newton's laws in tension problems
  • Learn how to construct and analyze free body diagrams (FBD)
  • Explore the dynamics of frictionless surfaces in physics
  • Review the relationship between force, mass, and acceleration in various contexts
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding tension in cables and forces acting on objects in motion.

madskier8806
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Homework Statement


A massive steel cable drags a 20.0 kg block across a horizontal, frictionless surface. A 90.0 N force applied to the cable causes the block to reach a speed of 3.60 m/s in 2.40 s.
What is the difference in tension between the two ends of the cable?

Homework Equations



F=ma
a=v/t

The Attempt at a Solution



a=3.6/2.4= 1.5 m/s2

90N=m*1.5
m=60
m(block)=20kg
m(cable)=40kg

F=40*1.5=60

90-60=30

Just looking at the numbers it doesn't look right

Thanks all for your help
 
Last edited:
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madskier8806 said:

Homework Statement


A massive steel cable drags a 20.0 kg block across a horizontal, frictionless surface. A 90.0 N force applied to the cable causes the block to reach a speed of 3.60 m/s in 2.40 s.
What is the difference in tension between the two ends of the cable?

Homework Equations



F=ma
a=v/t

The Attempt at a Solution



a=3.6/2.4= 1.5 m/s2yes[/color]

90N=m*1.5
m=60
m(block)=20kg
m(cable)=40kgyes[/color]

F=40*1.5=60 this is F_net[/color]

90-60=30no[/color]

Just looking at the numbers it doesn't look right

Thanks all for your help
looks like you isolated the rope and came up with the NET force on the rope. Try drawing a FBD of the block. Or identify all forces acting on the rope.
 

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