Solving Pulley System Questions: Tensions, Weights, and F=ma

In summary, the questions refer to the magnitudes of tensions and weights in a system with three masses (M1, M2, M3). M2 has more mass than M1 and M1 has more mass than M3. There is friction between the horizontal plane and M2 (mu_k not equal to 0), but M2 is observed to travel at a constant speed. The pulleys are frictionless and have negligible mass. The appropriate symbols for the statements are: A) T1 is E T2, B) M1 g is G T1, C) the magnitude of the net force on M2 is E T2 - T3, D) M1 accelerates downwards, E) T3 is
  • #1
_MNice_
3
0
In the figure below, M2 has more mass than M1 and M1 has more mass than M3. The questions refer to the magnitudes of tensions and weights. There
is friction between the horizontal plane and M2 (mu_k not equal to 0). M2 is observed to travel at a constant speed. Assume that the pulleys are frictionless and have negligible mass. Select the appropriate symbol for each statement: T (True), F (False), G (Greater than), L (Less than), or E (Equal to). (If the first two are 'greater than,' and the last four 'less than,' then enter GGLLLL).
A) T1 is ... T2.
B) M1 g is ... T1.
C) The magnitude of the net force on M2 is T2 - T3.
D) M1 accelerates downwards.
E) T3 is ... T2.
F) T4 is ... M3 g.



F=ma

So far, I have: LExTLE, where x is unknown. I am not sure if these are right, just looking for some guidance on this problem really.
 

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  • #2
Welcome to PF!

Hi _MNice_! Welcome to PF! :smile:
_MNice_ said:
A) T1 is ... T2.
B) M1 g is ... T1.
C) The magnitude of the net force on M2 is T2 - T3.
D) M1 accelerates downwards.
E) T3 is ... T2.
F) T4 is ... M3 g.

F=ma

So far, I have: LExTLE,

hmm … 2 out of 6 correct :redface:

almost everything in mechanics is done by applying F = ma

call the acceleration "a" (it's the same for all three masses), and apply F = ma to each of the three masses (separately)

(also to a tiny bit of string round each pulley)

show us what you get :smile:
 

1. What is a pulley system and how does it work?

A pulley system consists of one or more pulleys connected by a rope or belt. The pulleys act as simple machines, changing the direction of the force needed to lift an object. By spreading the force over multiple pulleys, the weight of the object can be distributed and it becomes easier to lift.

2. How do you calculate the tensions in a pulley system?

In a simple pulley system, the tension in the rope or belt is the same on both sides of the pulley. However, in more complex systems, the tension may vary. To calculate the tensions, you can use the equations T1 = T2 = F/2 or T1 = T2 = F/3, where T1 and T2 are the tensions on either side of the pulley and F is the force required to lift the object.

3. What factors affect the tension in a pulley system?

The tension in a pulley system is affected by the weight of the object being lifted, the number of pulleys and the arrangement of the pulleys, and any friction or resistance in the system. The direction of the applied force and the angle of the rope or belt can also impact the tension.

4. How does the weight of the object being lifted affect the pulley system?

The weight of the object being lifted determines the amount of force required to lift it. This force is distributed among the pulleys in the system, so the weight of the object affects the tension in the ropes or belts connecting the pulleys. The greater the weight, the higher the tension in the pulley system.

5. Are there any real-world examples of pulley systems?

Yes, pulley systems are used in many different industries and applications, such as elevators, cranes, and construction equipment. They are also commonly used in exercise equipment, such as weight machines and resistance bands, to provide resistance and make lifting weights easier.

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