Tension force at molecular level

AI Thread Summary
When a force is applied to both ends of a rope or cable, the molecules within the material experience electromagnetic attraction, which keeps them in a resting state. Pulling on the rope causes deformation, moving the molecules away from this equilibrium position. The molecules then exert a restoring force, attempting to return to their original arrangement. This interplay of forces generates tension within the rope. Understanding this molecular behavior is key to grasping how tension operates at a fundamental level.
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hey, i want to understand how does the molecules of a rope or cable generate tension when force is applied at both ends. consider a block of mass m hanging from a ceiling with the help of a string. please explain what's goin on at the molecular level in a rope when forces are applied at both ends.
 
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The molecules in a solid are attraced to each other by electromagnetic forces. When you pull on the rope, you deform it, and actually move the molecules away from their resting state. They want to go back to their resting state, and will pull in order to do so.
 

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