System of pulleys - General Understanding

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the tension (T) in a system of pulleys, specifically determining that T equals W/4, where W represents the weight being lifted. The approach involves applying the equilibrium condition, specifically the sum of forces in the vertical direction being zero. Participants confirm that analyzing each pulley separately and equating the forces in the cables is the correct methodology for solving such problems. This systematic approach ensures accurate calculations in pulley systems.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, particularly forces and equilibrium.
  • Familiarity with pulley systems and their mechanics.
  • Knowledge of how to apply the equilibrium sum of forces in vertical motion.
  • Ability to interpret and analyze diagrams related to mechanical systems.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of mechanical advantage in pulley systems.
  • Learn about the different types of pulleys and their applications.
  • Explore advanced problems involving multiple pulleys and varying weights.
  • Review the concept of tension in cables and its implications in static equilibrium.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics, as well as educators and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of pulley systems.

ana111790
Messages
41
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


A person is pulling the cable with force T. Find T.
[PLAIN]http://img684.imageshack.us/img684/1959/drawing6pulleys.jpg

Homework Equations


Equilibrium Sum of forces y = 0


The Attempt at a Solution



This is what I did:
[PLAIN]http://img822.imageshack.us/img822/7789/drawing6pulleyspart2.jpg The last part should say T=W/4
The answer (T=W/4) is the same at the end of the book but I want to make sure this is the correct way to approach pulley system problems, meaning: separate each pulley, do Sum of forces on each and give the proceeding cable force the same force as the force held bythe previous cable that it's connected to, and if it's coming straight from the ceiling it just has force T? Is this a correct approach?
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
You are right.
 

Similar threads

Ideal Vs Real Mass Pulley system
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
5K
Springs and Pulleys - Force analysis
  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
2K
System of two pulleys and three masses
  • · Replies 22 ·
Replies
22
Views
7K
Finding the period of pulley system
  • · Replies 22 ·
Replies
22
Views
3K
Time period of SHM & Energy conservation in pulley-spring-block system
  • · Replies 24 ·
Replies
24
Views
4K
Force applied on the pulley of a system
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
Struggling to Understand Pulley System Dynamics
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Tension and Pulleys theory question
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K
Equilibrium : normal reaction of a rotational center?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
What is the Time to Pivot the Rod with a Spinning Disk?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K