How Do I Include Tension in a Free Body Diagram?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on accurately representing tension in a Free Body Diagram (FBD) for a physics problem involving two blocks. The correct approach requires including both the gravitational force and the tension from the string connecting the blocks. Specifically, the tension should be indicated as a downward force of 72 N in the FBD for the upper block, alongside the weight of the upper block. This ensures a complete and accurate representation of the forces acting on the system.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Free Body Diagrams (FBD)
  • Knowledge of Newton's laws of motion
  • Familiarity with tension forces in physics
  • Basic concepts of gravitational force
NEXT STEPS
  • Study how to draw Free Body Diagrams for multi-body systems
  • Learn about tension forces in strings and cables in physics
  • Explore Newton's second law and its application in FBDs
  • Review examples of FBDs involving multiple forces and blocks
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Students studying physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone looking to improve their skills in drawing Free Body Diagrams and understanding forces in multi-body systems.

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Homework Statement


physic.jpg

Homework Equations



I already got the right answer in the book. The only issue I have is drawing the free body diagram which it doesn't show. I'm not sure how to include the tension of the bottom-most string into the first diagram.

The Attempt at a Solution



diagram.jpg

Its meant to say 72 N for the first diagram
 
Physics news on Phys.org
There are two downward forces on the upper block. One is the gravity force, its own weight, and the other is the tension in the sring due to the weight of the lower block. Thus your FBD for the upper block needs two down arrows.
 

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