Remark
Tension is a type of force. In this case the total force is that of the chain and the reflector are both vertical and therefore acted on by gravity.
Step One
Find the total mass
Mass = m = M1 + M2
M1 = 170 kg
M2 = 8.0 kg
m= 178.0
Step Two
Find the tension
m = 178.0 kg
a = 9.81
T = ???
Formula
T = m * a
T = 178 * 9.81
T = 1746 N
Comment
If this seems a little strange to you, remember that you are actually finding the downward force felt by the hook holding up the chain and reflector. That hook is going to experience the weight of both. I think the question used 9.8 rather than 9.81. That's what it did.
Answer
C
