A chandelier hangs from a chain in the middle of a dining room. Idenfity all the forces
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer:
The forces acting on the chandelier are:
- Gravitational Force (Weight): Acts downward due to Earth’s gravity.
- Tension Force: Acts upward through the chain, balancing the weight.
Explanation (300 words):
When analyzing the forces on a chandelier hanging motionless from a chain in the middle of a dining room, we apply Newton’s First Law, which states that an object at rest will stay at rest if all forces acting on it are balanced.
- Gravitational Force (Weight):
The chandelier has mass, and due to gravity, Earth pulls it downward. This force is called weight and is calculated by the equation: Fgravity=m×gF_{\text{gravity}} = m \times g where mm is the mass of the chandelier and gg is the acceleration due to gravity (approximately 9.8 m/s²). This force pulls vertically downward toward the center of the Earth. - Tension Force:
The chandelier is attached to the ceiling via a chain. The chain pulls upward on the chandelier with a force called tension. This tension force must exactly balance the chandelier’s weight for it to remain at rest. Otherwise, the chandelier would either rise (if tension is greater) or fall (if weight is greater).
Since the chandelier is not moving, we say it is in equilibrium, meaning: Tension=Weight\text{Tension} = \text{Weight}
There are no sideways (horizontal) forces acting on the chandelier because it is hanging straight down and not swinging or moving. There is also no normal force because the chandelier is not resting on a surface; it is suspended.
In summary, the chandelier is acted upon by two forces: a downward gravitational force and an upward tension force from the chain. These forces are equal in magnitude and opposite in direction, keeping the chandelier stationary in a state of mechanical equilibrium.