What is the magnitude of tension in the string supporting the pulley

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SUMMARY

The magnitude of tension in the string supporting the pulley, denoted as T1, is calculated to be 74 Newtons when mass 1 is 5 kg and mass 2 is 3 kg. The tension is not simply the sum of the weights of the two blocks due to the dynamics of the system, particularly when considering the forces acting on the pulley. A free body diagram (FBD) illustrates that the system is not in equilibrium, which affects the tension calculation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Basic principles of tension in strings and pulleys
  • Ability to construct and interpret free body diagrams (FBD)
  • Knowledge of gravitational force calculations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the dynamics of pulley systems in physics
  • Learn how to draw and analyze free body diagrams (FBD)
  • Explore the concept of equilibrium in mechanical systems
  • Investigate the effects of different mass combinations on tension
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Students studying physics, engineers working with mechanical systems, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of tension in pulley systems.

bulbasaur88
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If mass 1 is 5 kg, and mass 2 is 3 kg, what is the magnitude of tension in the string supporting the pulley, T1?

The answer is 74 N.

What I presume they did was to find tension in the string and then double that to get ~74 Newtons.

My question is: why isn't T1 simply the weight of the two blocks?
 
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bulbasaur88 said:
View attachment 38050

If mass 1 is 5 kg, and mass 2 is 3 kg, what is the magnitude of tension in the string supporting the pulley, T1?

The answer is 74 N.

What I presume they did was to find tension in the string and then double that to get ~74 Newtons.
Yes, using a FBD of the pulley in equilibrium.
My question is: why isn't T1 simply the weight of the two blocks?
It would be if the system was in equilibrium. Is it??
 
O.k. I think I see what you are saying. Thank you
 

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