Physics Lab: Calculating Tension with T=m(g-a)

Thread starter hailbo
Start date Sep 26, 2013
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Lab Physics Physics lab Tension

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In the physics lab discussion on calculating tension using the equation T=m(g-a), there is uncertainty about whether "g" should be negative or positive. The sign of "g" is contingent on the direction defined for "a." If "a" is considered positive in the upward direction, then "g" should be negative. Clarifying the direction of acceleration is crucial for accurate calculations. Understanding these sign conventions is essential for correctly applying the tension formula.

Sep 26, 2013

hailbo

I'm doing a physics lab right now and to find tension we use the equation T=m(g-a) where m is the suspended mass and t is tension. I'm not sure if g should be negative or positive. I'm guessing negative but I am not to sure.

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Sep 27, 2013

CWatters

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The sign of "g" will depend on which direction you define "a" to be positive.

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