With equal load distribution between two slings, widening the angle from vertical results in the force in each sling doing what?

• A. Decreases
• B. Increases
• C. Stays the same
• D. Varies with angle

Answer: (B)

When two slings share the same load, the weight is supported by the vertical components of both sling tensions. If each sling has tension T and makes an angle θ with the vertical, then the vertical components add up to the weight: 2T cos θ = W. Solving for T gives T = W / (2 cos θ). As the angle from vertical increases, cos θ decreases, so T increases. For example, at θ = 0°, T = W/2; as θ grows, T becomes larger and can become very large as θ approaches 90°. The horizontal components cancel each other due to symmetry, so the load isn’t pulled sideways, but the tension in each sling rises with angle.