Problem involves 2 unknown forces

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In summary, when a problem involves 2 unknown forces at certain specified points and other relevant information, it can lead to having 2 equations to solve for the unknown variables. If the force at one point is easily solved for and the forces are perpendicular to one another, summing the forces in only 1 direction can provide the answer for the previously unknown force, referred to as "X" at point "A". When determining the best point to sum moments about, it is important to consider which point will make the solution easier to obtain. If one component of the force at point A has already been solved for, it is recommended to choose another point besides A to sum moments about in order to directly obtain the answer for the remaining component.
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tchrisaw
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Suppose that a problem involves 2 unknown forces at certain specified points (point forces), along with other relevant info that leads to having 2 equations to solve for the unknown variables.

Assuming that the force at one point is solved for easily...that the forces are perpendicular to one another so that Summing the forces in only 1 direction provides the answer for the previously unknown force...call it force "X" at point "A"

Is it acceptable to then Sum the moments at "A" or should I use any point other than "A" ?


Thanks in advance
 
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I am not sure what you mean by "2 unknown forces at certain specified points" ...an example or picture would help...but in any case, if the object is in equilibrium, you can sum moments about any point you want, but usually you should pick the best point to make your solution easier to obtain. If you have solved, for example, the x-component of the force at A, and you are looking for the y-component of the force at A, you should pick another point instead of A about which to sum moments, because summing moments about A will not directly give you the answer for that y-component at A. You should provide a sample problem for clarification of your question.
 

1. What is a "problem involving 2 unknown forces" in science?

A problem involving 2 unknown forces refers to a scientific question or scenario that involves two forces acting upon an object or system, where the values or directions of these forces are not known.

2. How do scientists approach solving a problem involving 2 unknown forces?

Scientists typically use the principles of Newton's laws of motion and vector analysis to solve problems involving 2 unknown forces. They carefully consider the forces acting upon the object or system and use equations and diagrams to determine the values and directions of the unknown forces.

3. What are some common examples of problems involving 2 unknown forces?

Some common examples of problems involving 2 unknown forces include calculating the tension in a rope supporting a hanging object, determining the net force on an object on an inclined plane, and finding the acceleration of an object being pushed from both sides.

4. What information is needed to solve a problem involving 2 unknown forces?

To solve a problem involving 2 unknown forces, scientists typically need to know the mass of the object or system, the forces acting upon it, and any other relevant measurements such as angles or distances. They may also need to make assumptions or use simplifications in their calculations.

5. How can understanding problems involving 2 unknown forces be useful in real life?

Understanding how to solve problems involving 2 unknown forces can be useful in many real-life situations, such as engineering, physics, and sports. It can help in designing structures, predicting the motion of objects, and improving athletic performance by understanding the forces at play.

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