Calculate the tension on the rope.
A. 57.89 N
B. 32.73 N
C. 69.84 N
D. 12.55 N

Hi there!

To calculate the tension, we must calculate the acceleration of the system.

Begin with a summation of forces:

∑F = -M₁gsinФ + T - T + M₂g

Simplify and solve for acceleration: (Tensions cancel out)

Plug in values. Let g = 10 m/s²

Now, to find tension, let's sum up the forces acting on ONE block. For simplicity, we can look at the hanging block:

∑F = -T + W

ma = -T + W

Rearrange to solve for T:

T = W - ma

We know the acceleration, so plug in the values:

T = (8)(10) - (8)(5.91) = 32.73 N