Monkey in an Elevator: Calculating Tension & Acceleration

In summary, a 17.0 kg monkey hangs from a cord suspended from the ceiling of an elevator. The cord can withstand a tension of 220 N and breaks as the elevator accelerates. The maximum acceleration of the elevator before the cord breaks is 3.14 m/s². To determine the tension in the string if the elevator accelerates with the same magnitude but opposite direction, you would need to know the direction of the opposite acceleration and the forces acting on the monkey. Remember that acceleration has units and numerical values alone cannot determine its meaning. The questions posed by Nathanael can provide more insight into this scenario.
  • #1
syavian1019
6
0
A 17.0 kg monkey hangs from a cord suspended from the ceiling of an elevator.The cord can withstand a tension of 220 N and breaks as the elevator accelerates.

(A) What was the elevator’s maximum acceleration before the cord breaks?

(B) What is the tension in the string if the elevator accelerates with the same magnitude but opposite direction?

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I got (A) as 3.14, I just don't know how to approach (B).

Thanks in advance!
 
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  • #2
What direction is the opposite direction?

What net force on the monkey would be required to have that acceleration?

What forces are acting on the monkey?
 
  • #3
Remember that acceleration has units. 3.14 elephants per coulomb would have the same numerical value, but not the same meaning.

Besides that, the questions posted by Nathanael should point you in the right direction.
 

Related to Monkey in an Elevator: Calculating Tension & Acceleration

1. What is the purpose of studying the tension and acceleration of a monkey in an elevator?

The purpose of studying the tension and acceleration of a monkey in an elevator is to understand the forces acting on the monkey and how they affect its motion. This can help us make predictions and calculations for real-life scenarios, such as how much weight an elevator cable can hold or how quickly a monkey can move in different gravitational environments.

2. How is tension calculated in this scenario?

In this scenario, tension is calculated by using Newton's second law of motion, which states that the net force on an object is equal to its mass times its acceleration. By measuring the mass of the monkey and the acceleration of the elevator, we can calculate the tension on the elevator cable using the equation T = ma.

3. What factors affect the tension and acceleration of the monkey in an elevator?

The tension and acceleration of the monkey in an elevator are affected by several factors, including the weight of the monkey, the mass of the elevator, the gravitational pull of the Earth, and any external forces acting on the elevator (such as wind or friction). Additionally, the type and strength of the elevator cable can also affect the tension and acceleration.

4. How does the tension and acceleration change if the monkey is holding onto the elevator cable?

If the monkey is holding onto the elevator cable, the tension will increase because the monkey's weight is now partially supported by the cable. This will also affect the acceleration of the elevator, as the increased tension will result in a slower acceleration. Additionally, the monkey's grip strength and weight distribution along the cable can also impact the tension and acceleration.

5. Are there any safety concerns when studying the tension and acceleration of a monkey in an elevator?

Yes, there are safety concerns that must be taken into consideration when studying the tension and acceleration of a monkey in an elevator. It is important to ensure that the monkey is not harmed or put under unnecessary stress during the experiment, and that all safety measures are in place to prevent any accidents. Additionally, any equipment or materials used should be carefully chosen and handled to minimize risk.

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