Can a Spider's Acceleration on a Spider Web Be Supported by its Tension?

In summary, a 2.0 X 10^-4 kg spider is suspended from a thin strand of spider web with a tension limit of 2.0 X 10^-3 N. The spider ascends the strand with a steady acceleration, reaching a speed of 1.0 m/s in 4.0 s. Using the equation F=ma, it is determined that the tension needed to support the spider's motion is 2.46 X 10^-4 N, which is less than the maximum tension the strand can withstand. Therefore, the strand will be able to support the spider's motion.
  • #1
terryW16
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0

Homework Statement



A 2.0 X 10^-4 kg spider is suspended from a thin strand of spider web. The greatest tension the strand can withstand is 2.0 X 10^-3 N. if the spider was to ascend the strand from rest going to 1.0 m/s in 4.0 s with a steady acceleration, will the strand be able to support the motion?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



2.0 X 10^-4 kg (9.8 m/s²) = 1.96 X 10^-3 kg(m)/s²

2.0 X 10^-4 kg (0.25 m/s²) = 5.0 X 10^-5

1.96 X 10^-3 + 5.0 X 10^-5 = 2.46 X 10^-4
yes because 2.0 X 10^-3 is greater than 2.46 X 10^-4
 
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  • #2
1.96 X 10^-3 + 5.0 X 10^-5 = 2.46 X 10^-4
Something has gone wrong here. Better run it through again.
It looks like your approach is correct, though difficult to follow.
Maybe better to write
F = ma
T - mg = ma
T = ma + mg = m(a+g), then put in the numbers.
This way, there is only one calc, half the chance of killing it with a typo!
 

Related to Can a Spider's Acceleration on a Spider Web Be Supported by its Tension?

What is tension in physics?

Tension is a force that is created when an object is pulled or stretched. It is a type of mechanical stress that occurs when there is a pulling force acting on an object.

How is tension different from compression?

Tension and compression are opposite forces. Tension is created when an object is pulled, while compression is created when an object is pushed. Both forces can change the shape and size of an object, but in different ways.

What factors affect tension?

The amount of tension in an object is affected by several factors, including the strength of the material, the magnitude of the pulling force, and the length of the object. The type of material and its elasticity can also affect tension.

How is tension measured?

Tension is typically measured in units of force, such as newtons (N) or pounds (lbs). The amount of tension can be calculated by multiplying the force applied by the length of the object. In some cases, it may also be measured in units of stress, such as pascals (Pa).

What are some real-life examples of tension?

Tension can be observed in many everyday situations, such as when you stretch a rubber band, pull a rope, or lift a heavy object with a crane. In engineering, tension is also important in structures such as bridges and buildings, as well as in the operation of pulleys and cables.

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