Pulley Problems | AP Physics 1

Front

What is tension in a pulley system?

Back

Tension is the force transmitted through a string, rope, or cable when it is pulled tight by forces acting from opposite ends.

Front

What is the formula for calculating tension in a two-mass pulley system?

Back

Front

What is the role of friction in pulley problems?

Back

Friction opposes the motion of the masses and must be accounted for when calculating tension and acceleration.

Front

How do you calculate the force of friction?

Back

Front

What is the normal force in a pulley system?

Back

The normal force is the force exerted by a surface to support the weight of an object resting on it, acting perpendicular to the surface.

Front

How does mass affect tension in a pulley system?

Back

The greater the mass of an object, the greater the gravitational force acting on it, which increases the tension in the rope.

Front

What is the significance of rounding answers in physics problems?

Back

Rounding answers to a specified number of significant figures ensures precision and accuracy in reporting measurements.

Front

What is the acceleration due to gravity?

Back

Front

How do you determine the direction of tension in a pulley system?

Back

Tension always pulls away from the object and towards the pulley, acting along the length of the rope.

Front

What happens to tension when one mass is heavier than the other in a pulley system?

Back

The tension will be less than the weight of the heavier mass due to the acceleration of the system.