Why Is Tension Zero at the Free End of a Rotating Rope?

AI Thread Summary
When a rope is rotated in a vertical circle with one end fixed, the tension at the free end is considered zero due to the absence of any object for the rope to exert force upon. Tension requires contact with another object, which is not present at the free end. This boundary condition simplifies the analysis of forces acting on the rope. The discussion emphasizes that without an opposing force, the tension cannot exist at that point. Understanding this principle is crucial for analyzing the dynamics of rotating systems.
andyrk
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A rope is tied at one end then rotated in a vertical circle. Why do we take the tension at the free end of the rope as 0(Boundary Condition)?
 
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andyrk said:
A rope is tied at one end then rotated in a vertical circle. Why do we take the tension at the free end of the rope as 0(Boundary Condition)?

What is the end of the rope pulling on?
 
Nothing, so this is a silly doubt then I guess but for tension to occur there should be actual contact present between the string and some other object, right? Which in this case is missing from the free end of the rope?
 

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