Infinite Mass and Finite Tension over a pulley

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around the concept of tension in a rope over a pulley with infinitely large masses. Participants question how tension can remain at 1000 N despite increasing mass, referencing the equation F=ma. The original poster expresses confusion about the relationship between mass and force, particularly in the context of gravity being constant. Clarification is sought regarding the source of the 1000 N figure and whether additional problem details, such as the rope's maximum tension rating, are provided. The consensus suggests that understanding the limits of the system is crucial to resolving the tension paradox.
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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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