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Question
What is a block and tackle system of pulleys? What precautions would you observe while rounding the string so that the effort is applied in the downward direction?
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Solution
A block and tackle system of pulleys consists of two blocks of pulleys, each block having one or more than one pulleys. The upper block of pulleys is fixed to a rigid support and the lower block of pulleys is movable. The number of pulleys in the movable block is either equal or one less than the number of pulleys in the fixed block.
While rounding the string, its one end is attached to the hook of the movable block if the number of pulleys in the fixed block is more than that in the movable block or to the hook of the fixed block if the number of pulleys is the same in both the blocks.
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Rohan exerts a pull of 150 kgf. What is the maximum load he can raise with this pulley system if its efficiency = 75%?
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The alongside figure shows the combination of a movable pulley P1 with a fixed pulley P2 used for lifting up a load W.

(i) State the function of the fixed pulley P2.
(ii) If the free end of the string moves through a distance x, find the distance by which the load W is raised.
(iii) Calculate the force to be applied at C to just raise the load W = 20 kgf, neglecting the weight of the pulley P1 and friction.
| Meera chose to use a block and tackle system of '9' pulleys instead of a single movable pulley to lift a heavy load. |
Why should she connect more number of pulleys in the upper fixed block?
