Man vs Iron Weight: Understanding Acceleration in UAH PDF

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding the differences in acceleration when a man pulls on a rope with a force of 600N compared to an iron weight of 60Kg attached to the rope. The context includes exploring the mechanics of tension and acceleration in a system involving a pulling force and a hanging mass.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the explanation provided in a PDF regarding the difference in acceleration when a man pulls with a force of 600N versus when an iron weight is involved.
  • Another participant highlights that the tension in the rope is what pulls the cart and poses a question about which scenario produces greater tension, suggesting that if the cart is accelerating, the tension cannot equal the weight of the hanging mass.
  • A further contribution notes that as the weight falls, the tension in the rope must be less than the weight of the iron mass, indicating that the tension is less than 600N when the weight is accelerating downward.
  • A later reply expresses realization and appreciation for the clarification provided.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion does not reach a consensus, as participants express confusion and seek clarification on the mechanics involved. Multiple viewpoints regarding the relationship between tension and acceleration are presented without resolution.

Contextual Notes

Participants do not fully agree on the implications of tension in relation to the weight's acceleration, and there are unresolved aspects regarding the dynamics of the system as described in the PDF.

Emanresu
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http://www2.uah.es/jmc/ai14.pdf

On page 2 of the above pdf there is an example in a box with title 'Acceleration'
which states that there is a difference between a man pulling on a rope with 600N force and an iron weight of 60Kg (g = 10) tied to the rope. The difference being that once the system starts moving the iron weight generates less acceleration. I don't understand the explanation given. Could someone please explain in a different way.

Thanks,

E.
 
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What pulls the cart is the tension in the rope. Which case produces the greater tension? Hint: If the cart is accelerating, can the tension equal the weight of the hanging mass?
 
Emanresu said:
http://www2.uah.es/jmc/ai14.pdf

On page 2 of the above pdf there is an example in a box with title 'Acceleration'
which states that there is a difference between a man pulling on a rope with 600N force and an iron weight of 60Kg (g = 10) tied to the rope. The difference being that once the system starts moving the iron weight generates less acceleration. I don't understand the explanation given. Could someone please explain in a different way.

Thanks,

E.

The man keeps applying a force of 600 N.

Now consider the weight as it is falling. What is the tension in the rope? Since the weight is accelerating downward, the tension in the rope has to be less than the iron weight therefore the tension is less than 600 N.
 
Duh ! It seems so obvious now !

Thanks,

E.
 

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