Work Input vs Work Output in Pulley Systems

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SUMMARY

In pulley systems, the ideal scenario states that work input equals work output; however, real-world applications reveal that friction disrupts this balance. The discussion highlights that friction generates torque opposing pulley rotation, which must be accounted for in calculations. To determine the percentage of work input that equals work output, one must calculate the work done by friction using torque and angular displacement. The formula for work output is established as work input minus the work done by friction.

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  • Understanding of basic physics principles, specifically work and energy.
  • Familiarity with torque calculations in mechanical systems.
  • Knowledge of angular displacement and its relevance in rotational motion.
  • Concept of friction and its impact on mechanical efficiency.
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  • Research the calculation of work done by friction in mechanical systems.
  • Explore the relationship between torque and angular displacement in pulley systems.
  • Study real-world applications of pulley systems and their efficiency losses.
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Students and professionals in physics, mechanical engineering, and anyone involved in the design or analysis of pulley systems seeking to understand the impact of friction on mechanical efficiency.

moomoocow
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hello again,
i know that in an ideal pulley system, work input is equal to work output..however in reality, that is not possible due to friction

but what confuses me is that within what percentage is work input=work output?
how are we supposed to find the percentage?

thank you!
 
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In a real pulley, the friction results in a torque that opposes the rotation of the pulley. If you know the torque and the angular displacement you can calculate the work done by friction. The work output is the work input minus the work done by friction.
 

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