Tension Physics Example 1

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Example 1

easy
A 3 kg3 \text{ kg} lamp hangs from a single vertical rope. What is the tension in the rope? Use g=9.8 m/s2g = 9.8 \text{ m/s}^2.

Solution

  1. 1
    The lamp is in static equilibrium, so the net force is zero.
  2. 2
    The tension must balance the weight: T=mg=3×9.8=29.4 NT = mg = 3 \times 9.8 = 29.4 \text{ N}
  3. 3
    The tension acts along the rope, pulling the lamp upward.

Answer

T=29.4 NT = 29.4 \text{ N}
Tension is the pulling force transmitted through a rope, string, or cable. For a single vertical rope supporting a stationary object, the tension equals the object's weight.

About Tension

The pulling force transmitted through a rope, string, or cable when it is pulled taut at both ends.

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