What is the tension on a string wrapped around a pulley?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the tension in a string wrapped around a pulley system involving two masses: 2 kg and 10 kg. Key equations used include the sum of forces (Sum(F) = MA) and the relationship between linear velocity and radius (w = v/r). Participants clarify that the tensions on both sides of the pulley are equal and that the distance of 24.8 cm is irrelevant to solving the problem. The consensus is that determining the system's acceleration is essential for finding the tension.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's Second Law (Sum(F) = MA)
  • Basic principles of pulley systems
  • Knowledge of linear velocity and radius relationships (w = v/r)
  • Familiarity with mass and weight concepts
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the dynamics of pulley systems in physics
  • Learn how to calculate acceleration in multi-mass systems
  • Explore tension calculations in various pulley configurations
  • Review examples of similar physics problems for practice
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and pulley systems, as well as educators looking for examples of tension calculations in practical applications.

uncletammy
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Homework Statement



[PLAIN]http://nicholascrumrine.net/otherpics/physics/HW4_6.jpg

Homework Equations



Sum(F)=MA

w=v/r

The Attempt at a Solution



My assumptions are as follows:
The sum of the tensions on the left side of the pulley is equal to the tension in right side of the pulley
The given distance between the 2kg and 10kg masses is irrelevant and not needed.

I feel like I need to solve for the acceleration of the system before I can work the first part of the problem. Also, I don't know what is being labeled as 24.8cm and whether it is relevant. Any help would be much appreciated. Thanks!
 
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uncletammy said:
My assumptions are as follows:
The sum of the tensions on the left side of the pulley is equal to the tension in right side of the pulley
No, that's not correct. (Why the sum?)
The given distance between the 2kg and 10kg masses is irrelevant and not needed.
Good.
I feel like I need to solve for the acceleration of the system before I can work the first part of the problem.
Sounds good to me.
Also, I don't know what is being labeled as 24.8cm and whether it is relevant.
Good question. Looks like this same diagram might correspond to several problems. Ignore that bit of data.
 

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