PHYSICS INVESTIGATORY REPORT

Name: Jacob Antony

Class: 11A
Roll Number: B11114
G.R. Number: 24942
Topic: Pulley Systems
Year: 2023-24

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I would like to express my immense gratitude to my
physics sir Mr. Saji Thomas as well as my lab
assistant Mrs. Jishna Anoop for the guidance and
help they provided for completing this project

I would also like to thank our principal sir, Mr.

Neeraj Bhargava, for giving me this opportunity to do
this project.

I also would like to thank my parents who gave their

ideas and inputs in making this project

Most of all, I thank our school management, for

providing us the facilities and opportunity to do this
project
 Index
Sr. Page
No. Title No.

1 Introduction 6

2 Experiment 9

Application of
3 concept 12

4 Bibliography 15
 Introduction
A pulley system is a simple machine that plays a crucial role in
various mechanical applications. It consists of one or more
wheels (pulleys) connected by a rope or belt. Pulleys are
classified into three main types: fixed, movable, and combined.
These systems are integral components in industries,
construction, and everyday devices, providing mechanical
advantage and facilitating the movement of heavy loads with
reduced effort.

Basic Components:
Pulleys: Pulleys are the wheels in the system over which the
rope or belt passes. Fixed pulleys are attached to a stationary
support, while movable pulleys can move freely. Combined
systems involve a combination of both fixed and movable
pulleys.
Rope or Belt: The connection between the pulleys is typically
a rope or belt. This flexible element transmits force and motion
between the pulleys.

In a pulley system, tension and acceleration are two important

concepts that play a crucial role in understanding the behavior of
the system.
Tension in a Pulley System:
Definition:
Tension is the force transmitted through a rope, string, or cable
when it is pulled tight by forces acting from opposite ends.
Role in Pulley Systems:
In a pulley system, the tension in the rope is a key factor. When
a force is applied to one end of the rope to lift a load, this force
is transmitted through the rope and creates tension.
Conservation of Tension:
In an ideal pulley system (assuming no friction and negligible
mass of the rope), the tension remains constant throughout the
entire rope. This implies that the tension in the rope pulling up
on one side is equal to the tension in the rope pulling down on
the other side.
Acceleration in a Pulley System:
Definition:
Acceleration is the rate of change of velocity of an object. In the
context of a pulley system, it refers to how quickly the system is
moving or changing its motion.
Role in Pulley Systems:
The acceleration of a pulley system is influenced by the net
force acting on the system. The net force is determined by the
difference between the forces pulling on either side of the
pulley.
Relation with Tension:
The difference in tension on either side of the pulley is
responsible for the net force. If the tension on the side with the
load is greater, the system accelerates in the direction of the
load. If the tension on the other side is greater, the system
accelerates in the opposite direction.
Equations Relating Tension and Acceleration:
The relationship between tension (T), mass (m), and acceleration
(a) can be expressed using Newton's second law: T−mg=ma,
where T is the tension, m is the mass being lifted, g is the
acceleration due to gravity (approximately 9.8 m/s²), and a is the
acceleration of the system.
The net force (T1−T2) determines the acceleration of the
system.
If T1>T2, the system accelerates upward, and if T2>T1, the
system accelerates downward.
a= (m2-m1)g/m1+m2
T= 2m1m2g/m1+m2
 Experiment
Aim:
To investigate how pulleys can be used to change the amount of
force needed to move an object.

Materials Required:
1. 2 objects of different masses
2. Pulley system model

Procedure:
1. Place the pulley system model on a flat surface
2. Take 2 objects of different masses
3. Take a pen and paper, draw a table indicating the
following:
 Mass of object 1
 Mass of object 2
4. Note down the mass of object 1
5. Note down the mass of object 2
6. Indicate the value of ‘g’ for each case
7. Note down the net Force
 8. Tabulate the acceleration and tension using respective
formulas
9. Note down the values of acceleration and tension

Observation:
Mass Mass Acceleration Tension (T)=
of of (a)=(m2- 2m1m2g/m1+m2
object object m1)g/m1+m2
1 2
0.25kg 0.50kg 3.33m/s^2 3.34N
0.5kg 1.5kg 2.5m/s^2 7.5N
1kg 2.5kg 4.28m/s^2 14.28N
2kg 4kg 3.33m/s^2 26.66N
Note*
Acceleration due to gravity (g) remains constant (g=9.8m/s^2)

Average Acceleration:
3.33+3.33+2.5+4.28/4= 3.36m/s^2

Average Tension:
3.34+7.5+14.28+26.66= 12.94N

Result:
 The acceleration is 3.36m/s^2
 The tension is 12.94N

Precautions:
 Ensure that the pulleys, strings, and masses are securely attached
and properly aligned to avoid any unintended displacement during
the experiment.
 Conduct the experiment in a controlled environment with minimal
disturbances.
 Avoid sudden air currents or vibrations that could affect the
stability of the system.
Sources of Error:
 Pulley might not be aligned correctly
 Usage of highly uneven masses may result in collapse

Application of concept
The concept of pulley systems finds numerous applications in various
fields, ranging from everyday life to industrial processes. Here are some
points on the application of the pulley system concept:

Elevators:
Pulley systems are a fundamental component of elevators. They are used
to lift and lower the elevator cabin, making vertical transportation in
buildings efficient and practical.
Construction and Rigging:
Pulleys are extensively used in construction and rigging to lift heavy
materials and equipment. This application is vital in building
construction, shipyards, and other heavy-duty industries.
Cranes and Hoists:
Cranes and hoists often employ pulley systems to lift and move heavy
loads. The mechanical advantage provided by pulleys makes these
systems efficient for lifting objects of substantial weight.

Automotive Engines:
Timing belts and serpentine belts in automotive engines use pulley
systems. These systems are crucial for synchronizing the movement of
various engine components and driving auxiliary systems.

Agriculture:
In agriculture, pulley systems are employed for tasks like lifting hay
bales, irrigating fields, and operating machinery. This use of pulleys
contributes to increased efficiency in farming practices.
Well and Bucket Systems:
Traditional well and bucket systems use pulleys to raise water from the
well. This application has been used historically and is still prevalent in
some areas.

Film and Stage Productions:

Pulley systems are extensively used in the entertainment industry for
scene changes, special effects, and the movement of props. This
application provides a smooth and controlled way to manipulate
elements on stage or in film production.
 Bibliography

https://www.ropebook.com/information/pulley-systems/
https://testbook.com/physics/pulley-system
https://byjus.com/physics/pulleysystem/#:~:text=The%20Pulley%20System
%20makes%20use,force%20in%20a%20different%20direction.
https://sciencing.com/pulley-system-work-5004272.html