How Do You Calculate Tension in a Rope Holding a Box on a Ladder?

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the tension in a rope that is holding a box on top of a ladder, with a focus on the forces acting on the system. The subject area relates to mechanics, specifically tension and forces in static equilibrium.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply a formula for tension but expresses uncertainty regarding the acceleration value needed for the calculation. They also mention missing dimensions from a diagram that may be relevant to the problem.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with some participants questioning the completeness of the provided information and others offering support. There is no explicit consensus on the approach or the necessary parameters for solving the problem.

Contextual Notes

The original poster notes a lack of information regarding the acceleration and dimensions in the diagram, which may affect the ability to calculate the tension accurately.

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Homework Statement



1) A box of mass 42kg sits on the top of a ladder. Neglecting the weight of the ladder, find the tension in the rope. Assume the rope exerts horizontal forces on the ladder at each end.

Homework Equations



m1g – T = m1a

The Attempt at a Solution


T = m1g - m1a
This is the formula i know for calculating the tension
I have mass has 42 kg. But what is the value for acceleration here? Also I don't know because i have values for h and θ in the diagram.
 

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I think you are missing a critical dimension, see,

Edit, not so sure now, think everything is fine.
 

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Last edited:
This is more what you want?
 

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Thanks a lot Spinnor. So nice of you in explaining the things so beautifully.
 

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