In physics, tension describes the pulling force exerted by each end of a string, cable, chain, or similar one-dimensional continuous object, or by each end of a rod, truss member, or similar three-dimensional object. Tension is the opposite of compression.
At the atomic level, atoms or molecules have electrostatic attraction; when atoms or molecules are pulled apart from each other to gain electromagnetic potential energy, tension is produced. Each end of a string or rod under tension will pull on the object it is attached to, to restore the string/rod to its relaxed length…
So tension is caused due to the displacement of atoms with respect to each other. So strictly speaking, is it possible then to have tension in an inextensible string?
Best Answer
Yes.
Tension is simply the force a string exerts against you if you pull on it. An inextensible string means no matter how much you pull on it, it won't extend: it must always exert enough tension to counterbalance whatever force you use to pull on it.