Easy -1.8 This is a 1-mark multiple-choice question testing basic understanding of tension in equilibrium. It requires only recall that T = mg for a hanging mass, making tension directly proportional to mass. No calculation or problem-solving is needed, just recognition of a fundamental principle.
A particle \(P\), of mass \(m\) kilograms, is attached to one end of a light inextensible string.
The other end of this string is held at a fixed position, \(O\).
\(P\) hangs freely, in equilibrium, vertically below \(O\).
Identify the statement below that correctly describes the tension, \(T\) newtons, in the string as \(m\) varies.
Tick (\(\checkmark\)) one box.
[1 mark]
\(T\) varies along the string, with its greatest value at \(O\) \(\square\)
\(T\) varies along the string, with its greatest value at \(P\) \(\square\)
\(T = 0\) because the system is in equilibrium \(\square\)
\(T\) is directly proportional to \(m\) \(\square\)
A particle $P$, of mass $m$ kilograms, is attached to one end of a light inextensible string.
The other end of this string is held at a fixed position, $O$.
$P$ hangs freely, in equilibrium, vertically below $O$.
Identify the statement below that correctly describes the tension, $T$ newtons, in the string as $m$ varies.
Tick ($\checkmark$) one box.
[1 mark]
$T$ varies along the string, with its greatest value at $O$ $\square$
$T$ varies along the string, with its greatest value at $P$ $\square$
$T = 0$ because the system is in equilibrium $\square$
$T$ is directly proportional to $m$ $\square$
\hfill \mbox{\textit{AQA AS Paper 1 2019 Q12 [1]}}