Rotational Mechanics: Tension Difference in Pulley Due to Friction

In summary, the tension in the ropes on both sides of a pulley is different due to the opposing torques they create. This difference in tension is necessary to cancel out the frictional torque at the shaft of the pulley, which opposes its rotation.
  • #1
shashank
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I can't get it why tension is different in both sides of pulley due to friction?
 
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  • #2
The tension in the rope on one side of the pulley is trying to rotate the pulley in one direction, and the tension on the other side is trying to rotate the pulley in the opposite direction. If the pulley is rotating at a constant speed, then the net torque on the pulley has to be zero, which means that the difference between the torques from the two ropes has to exactly cancel the torque from friction. The frictional torque is non-zero, so the difference in the tension of the ropes has to be non-zero, which means that it can't be the same in both ropes.
 
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  • #3
But I can't get that where is the friction being applied and in which direction?
 
  • #4
Friction is being applied at the shaft of the pulley and opposes its rotation.
 
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  • #5
Thanks a lot sir...
 

1. What is rotational mechanics?

Rotational mechanics is a branch of physics that studies the motion of objects that rotate around a fixed axis. It involves understanding concepts such as torque, angular velocity, and rotational inertia.

2. How does a pulley system work?

A pulley system is a simple machine that consists of a wheel with a grooved rim and a rope or belt that runs along the groove. When one end of the rope is pulled, the wheel rotates and the other end of the rope moves in the opposite direction. This allows for the transfer of force and motion between two points.

3. What is tension difference in a pulley due to friction?

Tension difference in a pulley due to friction refers to the difference in tension between the two sides of a pulley system caused by the presence of friction between the rope and the pulley. This difference in tension can affect the overall efficiency and performance of the system.

4. How does friction affect the tension difference in a pulley system?

Friction can cause a decrease in the tension on one side of the pulley and an increase in tension on the other. This is due to the fact that friction causes a resistance to the motion of the rope, resulting in a difference in tension between the two sides of the pulley.

5. How can the tension difference in a pulley system be minimized?

The tension difference in a pulley system can be minimized by reducing the friction between the rope and the pulley. This can be achieved by using smoother pulley surfaces, lubricating the pulley, or using a different type of material for the rope. Additionally, using multiple pulleys in a system can help distribute the tension more evenly and minimize the effects of friction.

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