What is the Tension in a Pulley System?

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    Pulley Tension
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The discussion focuses on understanding tension in a pulley system, emphasizing the relationship between gravitational force and tension. The primary equation mentioned is Tension (Ft) = Force of gravity (Fg) = m × g, with a specific example calculating 588N for a 60kg mass. Participants are encouraged to identify equal tensions in the system and to derive equations based on the principle that the sum of forces on each pulley must equal zero. The conversation highlights the importance of recognizing which tensions are the same and how to approach the problem without relying solely on memory. Understanding these concepts is crucial for solving pulley system problems effectively.
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Homework Statement


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Homework Equations



Tension (Ft) = Force of gravity (Fg) = m × g.

The Attempt at a Solution


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only manage to reach 60kg x 9.8 = 588N
 
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Create unknowns for all the other tensions in the system. Many will be equal. What equations can you write down relating them?
 
haruspex said:
Create unknowns for all the other tensions in the system. Many will be equal. What equations can you write down relating them?
thats where I am having trouble with or just misunderstanding. I am trying to remember what I learned about this before and something I can sort of remember is there will be half of the weight in some pulleys and some doubled?
 
Mikey Faye said:
thats where I am having trouble with or just misunderstanding. I am trying to remember what I learned about this before and something I can sort of remember is there will be half of the weight in some pulleys and some doubled?
You don't need to remember anything like that. Can you figure out which tensions will be the same? For each pulley, you know that the sum of forces on that pulley will be zero. That gives you the equations you need.
 
haruspex said:
You don't need to remember anything like that. Can you figure out which tensions will be the same? For each pulley, you know that the sum of forces on that pulley will be zero. That gives you the equations you need.
Two would be the same right?
 
Mikey Faye said:
Two would be the same right?
How many different tensions do you think there might be?
 

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