Finding X and Y components of forces

[azn4lyf89]

So I did an equilibrium experiment using pulleys and weights, where we set up different weights at different angles and had to get the right angle and weight to make the ring in the middle be centered. I am suppose to find the X and Y components of the forces. I am sort of confused on which components are the X and Y. The magnitude is in Newtons so I think I have to use that magnitude to find the X and Y components? I also have an angle so would my components be something like 2.25Nxcos(50.0°)=x and 2.25Nxsin(50°)=y?

 

[LowlyPion]

So I did an equilibrium experiment using pulleys and weights, where we set up different weights at different angles and had to get the right angle and weight to make the ring in the middle be centered. I am suppose to find the X and Y components of the forces. I am sort of confused on which components are the X and Y. The magnitude is in Newtons so I think I have to use that magnitude to find the X and Y components? I also have an angle so would my components be something like 2.25Nxcos(50.0°)=x and 2.25Nxsin(50°)=y?

The angle is taken relative to an axis. If you are choosing the x-axis and your angle is at the origin, and positive angle is in the first quadrant ... then the x component is F*cosθ - adjacent/hippopotamus and the rise in y will be given by F*Sineθ - opposite/hippo.

 

[baba89]

I would first commend you on conducting an experiment to determine the X and Y components of forces. Your approach of using pulleys and weights to achieve equilibrium is a sound method for this type of experiment.

To answer your question, the X and Y components of a force refer to the horizontal and vertical components respectively. In your example, the X component would be the force acting in the horizontal direction and the Y component would be the force acting in the vertical direction.

Your calculation for finding the X and Y components using the magnitude and angle is correct. However, it is important to note that the angle should be measured from the positive X-axis (usually the right side) in a counterclockwise direction. This will ensure that your X and Y components are in the correct quadrants.

Additionally, to determine the X and Y components of a force, you can also use the trigonometric functions of sine and cosine. The cosine function will give you the X component and the sine function will give you the Y component.

I hope this helps clarify any confusion you may have had regarding the X and Y components of forces. Keep up the good work in your experiments!