Pulley problem solving for mass

In summary, movers are using a pulley system with 6 strands of rope to haul a piano up to a window that is 5 floors above the ground. They can exert a total force of 1111 N. Using the equation Fg / Fext = N, where Fg is the force of gravity and Fext is the external force, it is possible to calculate the weight of the piano. After solving for the weight of the piano using two different methods, the answer is still incorrect. It is possible that the given answer is in a different unit, leading to the discrepancy.
  • #1
caprice_87
1
0
Movers have to haul a piano up to a window that is 5 floors above the ground. They decide to use a pulley system with 6 strands of rope. if the movers can exert a total force of 1111 N, how heavy a piano can they hoist?

It doesn't say where the movers are standing but I'm assuming on the ground level/ I've tried solving this what appeared to be a straight forward force multiplier problem a number of ways and can't get the correct answer.

Using Fg / Fext = N
where Fg = m * g
and g = 9.8

m * g / 1111 = 5 ( 1 strand is the pulling strand)

therefore m * G = 5555
leaving m = 5555 / 9.8 = 566.84Kg

Same method using a 6 multiplier bit it is also incorrect. What am I missing here.

Thanks
 
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  • #2
I would have said 5555 N as well. Could the problem be that the answer is given in different units? What is the given answer?
 

Related to Pulley problem solving for mass

What is a pulley?

A pulley is a simple machine that consists of a wheel with a groove around its circumference and a rope or belt that runs along the groove. It is used to lift or move objects by changing the direction of the force applied.

How does a pulley work?

In a pulley system, the weight of the object is distributed across multiple ropes or segments of the rope, making it easier to lift. As the rope is pulled down, the object is lifted up by the same distance.

What is the formula for calculating the mechanical advantage of a pulley system?

The mechanical advantage of a pulley system is equal to the number of supporting ropes or segments of the rope. For example, a system with 3 ropes has a mechanical advantage of 3.

How can pulleys be used to solve problems involving mass?

Pulleys can be used in problem solving for mass by providing a mechanical advantage, making it easier to lift heavy objects. By using the mechanical advantage formula, the number of ropes or segments of the rope can be determined, which can then be used to calculate the mass of the object being lifted.

Are there any limitations to using pulleys for solving mass problems?

Yes, there are a few limitations to using pulleys for solving mass problems. One limitation is that the ropes or belts used in the pulley system must be strong enough to support the weight of the object being lifted. Additionally, friction in the pulley system can also affect the accuracy of the calculations.

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