Tension Force Parallel to the Ground (Perpendicular to Gravity)

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the analysis of tension forces acting on a block on a ramp, specifically comparing the tension force when it is parallel to the ramp versus when it is horizontal. The consensus is that the tension force when parallel to the ramp is greater than when it is horizontal. Participants emphasize the importance of free body diagrams and trigonometric functions in deriving the correct equations for tension, with specific references to equations such as Ft = mg/Cos(theta) and the need for clarity in diagram representation.

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  • Understanding of free body diagrams
  • Knowledge of trigonometric functions and their applications in physics
  • Familiarity with Newton's laws of motion
  • Ability to manipulate equations involving angles and forces
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics, as well as educators looking for examples of tension force analysis in inclined planes.

Redfire66
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Homework Statement


A block on a ramp is held by a tension force parallel to the horizontal (not the ramp). If originally the tension force was parallel to the ramp, is the tension force when it was parallel greater, equal, or less than when it is horizontal?

Homework Equations


Trigonometric Functions

The Attempt at a Solution


I would say with the work I have that it is less than, as is the answer, but it's how I get the answer that differs
I have drawn a free body diagram, where FgCostheta = Fn (I've been wonder would FnCostheta also equate to Fg? It makes sense when you draw it but honestly it does not make sense when making the equation)
I know FgCostheta = Fn or FnCostheta = Fg if I draw the triangles differently
I also tried many different methods for equating for Ft (since there are multiple methods for drawing that triangle. Like the perpendicular side points up, or is along Ft, etc)
The diagram doesn't have all of it, since I broke it off to a few more stuff and it just got too crowded so I just uploaded the file that I've been told is wrong. Doesn't look wrong to me so I was hoping if I could get some correction
I should've gotten Ft = mg/Costheta however I get different equations such as Ft = mg/Cottheta
 

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Presumably the block is meant to be on the plane not pivoting on a corner?

Draw the two free body diagrams (one for the parallel case and one for the horizontal) and show us your two equations for Ft.
 

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