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How do you know which way tension is going?

GeneralClass 12AllAnswered 27 Mar 2026
Answer

Tension always acts along the length of a rope or cable and pulls away from the object it is attached to. It never pushes.

When solving problems, assume a direction first, then let the math confirm it. If the final value is negative, the actual direction is opposite to the assumption—classic physics honesty at work.

General · Class 12