Question

incorrect. this answer states that the tension is smallest in c. but the tension is smaller in b than in c, because in b three rope segments support the weight of the block, with the result that 3t = w or t = w/3. in c two rope segments support the weight of the block, with the result that 2t = w or t = w/2. a heavy block is suspended from a ceiling using pulleys in three different ways, as shown in the drawings. rank the tension in the rope that passes over the pulleys in ascending order (smallest first). b,c,a c,b,a a,b,c c,a,b b,a,c

Explanation:

Step1: Analyze case A

In A, only one - rope segment supports the weight of the block. So, if the weight of the block is $W$, the tension $T_A=W$.

Step2: Analyze case B

In B, three rope segments support the weight of the block. According to the equilibrium condition, $3T_B = W$, then $T_B=\frac{W}{3}$.

Step3: Analyze case C

In C, two rope segments support the weight of the block. According to the equilibrium condition, $2T_C = W$, then $T_C=\frac{W}{2}$.

Step4: Compare the tensions

Since $\frac{W}{3}<\frac{W}{2}

Answer:

B. C, A