Tension Force Direction in Inclined Block Problems

[chantalprince]

Hi there,

Im working on a problem where a portion of it deals with tension. When making a force diagram, I have a difficult time figuring out which direction the tension force is pointing.

The problem looks like this:

A block on an incline going downhill to the right, with a string attached and the string is attached to a wall on the left hand side.

I want to say that the tension force is pointed down hill with the block, but it seems like I could talk myself into either way.

Any help is appreciated! Thanks!

 

[Chi Meson]

Tension is in the string. Both ends of the string pull with equal magnitudes of force on the objects the string is attached to.

Is the block stationary? I assume so. In that case, the tension is pulling the block with a force that will cause equilibrium.

 

[chantalprince]

Yes, the block is stationary. Thank you very much!