Where does the force of tension act on a box?

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SUMMARY

The force of tension acting on a box is determined by the angle of the string at the point of attachment. When analyzing linear forces using the equation ΣF=ma, the specific point of attachment becomes irrelevant, allowing for simplification to the center of mass. However, when considering torques, the line of action is crucial, necessitating the use of the actual point of attachment or any point along the line of the string. The angle applied in this context is identified as theta.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of linear force analysis (ΣF=ma)
  • Basic knowledge of torque and its calculation
  • Familiarity with angles in physics (theta and phi)
  • Concept of center of mass in rigid body mechanics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of torque calculation in rigid bodies
  • Explore the implications of angle of force application in physics
  • Learn about the center of mass and its relevance in force analysis
  • Investigate the effects of tension forces in different mechanical systems
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics, as well as educators seeking to clarify concepts related to tension forces and torque analysis.

aspodkfpo
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Homework Statement
Where does the force of tension act on a box?
Relevant Equations
theta, phi
1597901168652.png

Given a force of tension with a string attached to the front of the box, do we take the force as acting with an angle to the centre of the mass of phi or theta? Explain please?
 
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aspodkfpo said:
Homework Statement:: Where does the force of tension act on a box?
Relevant Equations:: theta, phi

View attachment 268020
Given a force of tension with a string attached to the front of the box, do we take the force as acting with an angle to the centre of the mass of phi or theta? Explain please?
It acts at the point where it is attached, at the angle of the string.
If you are just looking at the balance of linear forces, (ΣF=ma) then the point of attachment is irrelevant, so you can take it as the centre of the block, but you must keep the angle actually applied.
When looking at torques, the line of action is important, so use the actual point of attachment, or any point in the same straight line as the string.
 
haruspex said:
It acts at the point where it is attached, at the angle of the string.
If you are just looking at the balance of linear forces, (ΣF=ma) then the point of attachment is irrelevant, so you can take it as the centre of the block, but you must keep the angle actually applied.
When looking at torques, the line of action is important, so use the actual point of attachment, or any point in the same straight line as the string.
"angle actually applied" is theta right?
 
aspodkfpo said:
"angle actually applied" is theta right?
Yes.
 

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