Find Weight of Object Pulled by Rope w/ FT=30N & Acceleration=1.4m/s2

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the weight of an object being pulled upward by a rope, given a tension force of 30N and an upward acceleration of 1.4 m/s². The problem involves concepts from dynamics and the relationship between mass, weight, and acceleration.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply Newton's second law to find the mass of the object but questions their result when it differs from the book's answer. Some participants raise concerns about the distinction between mass and weight, as well as the direction of acceleration in relation to the forces involved.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the problem. Some guidance has been offered regarding the definitions of mass and weight, and the implications of the direction of acceleration. There is no explicit consensus on the correct approach yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants are considering the implications of the upward acceleration and the relationship between tension and gravitational force. There is mention of potential errors in the textbook and the need for clarity on the direction of forces.

ThomasMagnus
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An object is pulled up by a rope from an elevator traveling upward with an acceleration of 1.4 m/s2. The tension in the rope is 30N. What is the weight of the object.
A) 2.6kg
B) 3.6kg
C)4.6kg
D)5.6kg

My attempt:
FT=30N
asystem=1.4m/s2
Weight of object=mg

The system is accelerating up, so let 'up' be positive.
[tex]\Sigma[/tex]F=ma

Sum of the forces acting upwards minus sum of the forces acting downward:
30N+(-mg)=ma
30N=m(a+g)
30/(9.8+1.4)=m
m=2.6kg

For some reason I am not getting the correct answer. The book says that it is 3.6kg. What am I doing wrong?

This is the method the book uses:
"Since the forces act in opposite directions, they are related as: mg=ma+T"
 
Last edited:
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looks like a double book error. 1.) Mass and weight are not the same. 2.) The acceleration and movement are not necessarily in the same direction, and this is not stated. Assuming that the acceleration is upward, what is the object's weight?
 
If the acceleration is upward and they are talking about mass, did I do it correctly?
 

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