How it's calculated
T = m × (g + a)
T = rope tension (N), m = mass (kg), g = gravity 9.80665 m/s², a = acceleration. Incline: T = m(g sinθ + a + μg cosθ); Atwood machine: T = 2 m₁ m₂ g ÷ (m₁ + m₂).
Common questions
How do I find tension on a hanging mass?
For a still mass, tension equals weight, mg. If it accelerates upward, tension is m times g plus a.
Does tension change on an incline?
Yes. On a frictionless incline the rope holding a mass carries m g times the sine of the slope angle, not the full weight.