PhysicsLAB: Tensions and Equilibrium

Refer to the following information for the next question.

The rock hangs at rest from a single string. Only two forces act on it, the upward tension T of the string, and the downward pull of gravity W.

The forces are equal in magnitude and opposite in direction. Net force on the rock is

zerogreater than zero

Refer to the following information for the next question.

Here the rock is suspended by 2 strings. Tension in each string acts in a direction along the string. We'll show tension of the left string by vector A, and tension of the right string by vector B.

The resultant of A and B is found by the parallelogram rule, and is shown by the dashed vector. Note it has the same magnitude as W, so the net force on the rock is

zerogreater than zero

Refer to the following information for the next question.

Consider strings at unequal angles. The resultant A + B is still equal and opposite to W, and is shown by the dashed vector. Construct the appropriate parallelogram to produce this resultant. Show the relative magnitudes of A and B

Tension in A is ____ the tension in B.

less thanequal togreater than

Refer to the following information for the next question.

Repeat the procedure for the arrangement shown below.

Here tension is greater in rope

Refer to the following information for the next three questions.

Construct vectors A and B for the cases below. First draw a vector W, then the parallelogram that has equal and opposite vector A + B as the diagonal. Then write an equation relating the approximate magnitudes of A and B.