Step-by-step explanation:
To determine which chord has the greatest tension, we need to analyze the forces acting on each chord.
Let's assume that the acceleration of the system is "a" and the tensions in chords 1, 2, and 3 are T1, T2, and T3, respectively.
For chord 1:
The tension in chord 1 (T1) must overcome the inertia of the 20kg trolley. Therefore, we have:
T1 - (20kg * a) = 20kg * a [using Newton's second law]
T1 = 40kg * a
For chord 2:
The tension in chord 2 (T2) must overcome the inertia of the 18kg trolley. Therefore, we have:
T2 - (18kg * a) = 18kg * a [using Newton's second law]
T2 = 36kg * a
For chord 3:
The tension in chord 3 (T3) must overcome the inertia of both the 25kg trolley and the car of mass 500kg. Therefore, we have:
T3 - (25kg * a) - (500kg * a) = 25kg * a [using Newton's second law]
T3 = 526kg * a
Comparing the tensions:
T1 = 40kg * a
T2 = 36kg * a
T3 = 526kg * a
Since T3 has the highest coefficient of mass (526kg) compared to T1 (40kg) and T2 (36kg), chord 3 has the greatest tension.
Therefore, chord 3 has the greatest tension among the three chords.