Infinite Mass and Finite Tension over a pulley

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a physics problem involving two masses hanging over a massless, frictionless pulley, specifically examining the implications of infinitely large masses on the tension in the rope, which is stated to not exceed 1000 N.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to understand the relationship between mass and tension, questioning how tension can remain constant despite increasing mass. There are inquiries about the origin of the 1000 N limit and whether additional information about the problem is provided.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the problem. Some have noted the need for more information regarding the maximum tension rating of the rope, while others are questioning the validity of the provided answer from the textbook.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of a multiple-choice format for the problem, which includes options that suggest varying interpretations of the tension as mass increases. The original poster has expressed confusion regarding the stated answer of 1000 N.

enantiomerrem
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Homework Statement



Two masses hang across a massless, frictionless pulley. As the masses become infinitely large, the tension becomes:



Homework Equations



F=ma



The Attempt at a Solution



Can someone please help me understand how two masses suspended over a pulley can increase in mass infinitely while the tension in the rope suspending them will not exceed 1000 N? The way I have viewed it is that F=ma and as m increases so will force despite the fact that gravity is a constant acceleration. Thanks for any help provided.
 
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It looks like you haven't given us the whole problem.

Where does 1000 N come from ?
 
Right, so it is actually multiple choice:

A.) O N
B.) 500 N
C.) 1000 N
D.) Infinite

The back of my book says the anser is 1000 N, but I do not understand how this is possible. Thanks again for the help.
 
Is there any more information given in the problem, such as the maximum tension at which the rope is rated?
 
What about infinite ?
 

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