- #1
Mass needed for static equilibrium compound pulley system
- Thread starter hus8765
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Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around determining the mass required for static equilibrium in a compound pulley system, given a specific mass (m2 = 60 kg). The focus is on understanding the mechanics involved, particularly through the use of free body diagrams and the relationship between the movements of the masses in the system.
Discussion Character
- Homework-related, Technical explanation
Main Points Raised
- One participant states the need to find the mass (m1) for static equilibrium with m2 = 60 kg.
- Another participant emphasizes that in a static situation, the lengths of the rope will not change and suggests using free body diagrams and tensions to analyze the system.
- A third participant reiterates the importance of free body diagrams and tensions, expressing gratitude for the advice.
- A later reply introduces the idea of how the movement of one mass affects the other, questioning whether the movement is equal, half, or double, and suggests this relationship can help deduce the necessary tension for balance.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants generally agree on the importance of analyzing the system through free body diagrams and the concept of static equilibrium, but there is no consensus on the specific approach to determining the mass m1.
Contextual Notes
The discussion does not resolve the mathematical steps required to find m1, and assumptions about the relationships between the movements of the masses remain unaddressed.
- #2
gneill
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If it is static (no motion) then the lengths will not be changing. Look to free body diagrams and tensions instead.
- #3
hus8765
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thanks a lotgneill said:
- #4
BvU
Science Advisor
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Hello hus, welcome to PF 
The change in length thingy is a good hint, though. But perhaps a little differently: If one of the two moves a little, does the other move just as much, half as much, or twice as much ? From that you can deduce the proper tension force to keep balance. And balance means no change of lengths allright.
The change in length thingy is a good hint, though. But perhaps a little differently: If one of the two moves a little, does the other move just as much, half as much, or twice as much ? From that you can deduce the proper tension force to keep balance. And balance means no change of lengths allright.
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