Tension (mass hanging from a rope)

This Tension equation is used to compute the tension(T) in a string that is suspending a mass(m) below it.

INSTRUCTIONS: Choose units and enter the following:

• (m) Mass
• (a) Acceleration due to other forces
• (g) Acceleration due to gravity

Tension(T): The equation returns the tension(T) of a string in Newtons. However, this can be automatically converted to other force units via the pull-down menu.

The Math / Science

Tension tells us how much force is being applied to a pulling medium such as a rope. An elementary equation tell us that Tension can be calculated between the relationship of mass, gravity and acceleration:

• T = (m•g)+(m•a)

where:

• T is the tension
• m is the mass of a hanging object
• a is the acceleration (up or down) in which the object is moving
• g is the acceleration due to gravity

Notes:

If the mass is moving upwards then you should list your acceleration as a negative force since the force of gravity is counted as being positive.

Related Calculators:

• String Tension for a piano
• Max String Tension for a piano
• Cable Loads Tension at Midspan
• Acceleration
• Gravity
• Tension (mass hanging from a rope)