TENSION: how do you calculate it?

Thread starter hebden
Start date Oct 5, 2005
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Tension

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Calculating tension does not rely on a specific formula; instead, it is often treated as an unknown force in the context of Newton's Second Law. The equation T=ma is not typically applicable for determining tension in introductory physics. Tension is influenced by various factors and is usually derived from analyzing the forces acting on an object. Understanding the net force is crucial for accurately calculating tension in different scenarios. Overall, tension requires a contextual approach rather than a one-size-fits-all formula.

Oct 5, 2005

hebden

is there any specific formula or formulas for calculating tension? is T=ma legit?

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Oct 5, 2005

robphy

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Generally, in introductory physics, the tension is not determined by a general formula. If one needs to determine it, it is often an unknown force contributing to the net-force on an object, which appears on one side of Newton's Second Law. So... no, T=ma is not generally "legit".

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