Finding the tension in a string

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The discussion revolves around calculating the tension in a string connecting two blocks weighing 250 N and 350 N over a pulley. The user applied the formula T = (2*m1*m2)/(m1+m2)*9.8 m/s² to find the tension, resulting in an answer of 291 N. However, they expressed uncertainty about the accuracy of their calculation, noting that the tension should be between the two weights. Feedback indicated that rounding may have affected the final answer, which is closer to 290 N. The user confirmed they used the correct formula for the calculation.
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Homework Statement


Two blocks weighing 250 N and 350 N are connected by a string that passes over a massless pulley. What is the tension in the string?


Homework Equations


T= (2*m1*m2)/(m1+m2)*9.8m/s2


The Attempt at a Solution


m1 = 250/9.8 = 25.5
m2 = 350/9.8 = 35.7

T = (2*25.5*35.7)/(25.5+35.7)*9.8 = 291 N

Doesn't seem right. Can someone tell me what I did wrong?
 
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It looks right to me. The tension is somewhere in between the two weights, as it should be.

Just watch the sig figs, if your teacher (hopefully) cares about that.
 
Alright, well the answer is 290 so I probably just rounded off too much (like you said).

I was just wondering if I used the right formula but it seems that I did.

Thanks
 
The book claims the answer is that all the magnitudes are the same because "the gravitational force on the penguin is the same". I'm having trouble understanding this. I thought the buoyant force was equal to the weight of the fluid displaced. Weight depends on mass which depends on density. Therefore, due to the differing densities the buoyant force will be different in each case? Is this incorrect?

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