Finding the angle that a string makes with a wall and its tension

In summary: Without knowing the tension in the three segments, it is impossible to solve for the third force.In summary, the problem is caused by the lack of information about the tension in the three segments.
  • #1
JohnnyLaws
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Homework Statement
We have two bodies (first one has 300Kg and another one has400Kg) in equilibrium connected by a massless string and there's no friction. The first one is held by a thread that makes an angle theta with the wall as we will see in image. The second one is held by same thread that is held by a pulley. I need to calculate angle theta and the Tension that string makes between points A and B (points that We Will see in image).
Relevant Equations
To define the equations I used (I'm not sure if they are correct), I need to explain force vectors. It's probably better to start by looking at the image before we delve into the equations.

T1 = is first Tension wich is produzed in points A and B.
T2 = is Tension that body 2 creates
T3 = is Tension that body creates
W1 = weight of body 1
W2 = weight of body 2



T1cos(theta)+T3-W1 = 0
That first equation is refering to body 1
T1cos(theta)+T2-w2 = 0
That second equation is refering to body 2
-T1sin(theta)-T2+T3= 0
That thirth equation is refering to body horizontal forces of the string


I'm pretty sure those equations are wrong because I have 3 variables for 4 equations
For a better understanding of this exercise here is the image illustrating the scenario described in the statement:
View attachment 330011
So to solve this exercise I began by drawing a forces diagram:

?hash=6808524031f7161cf80fa09a9886170f.jpg


I believe I have explained everything in the "Relevant equations" section. What am I doing wrong? The book that I'm reading doesn't have any solutions.
 

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  • #2
I don't know why the image of the exercise doesn't appear. Here it is:

image_50407937.JPG
 
  • #3
Your force diagram has too many forces in places. For example, in the horizontal piece of rope you can't have T2 pointing to the left and T3 pointing to the right. The tension in a piece of rope is the same everywhere along it.

Also, when you draw free body diagrams (FBD), you have to decide what the system is. This is particularly important when you have strings or ropes because the tension force is always away from the system. For this problem, I suggest that you draw a FBD for the knot at point B where the tensions in all three segments of rope come together. Then write your equations.

Two additional things to keep in mind: (a) Pulleys change the direction of the tension but not its magnitude; (b) the weights are not accelerating. What is the tension in the segments of rope attached to them?
 
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  • #4
@JohnnyLaws, have you met force triangles (for 3 forces in equilibrium)?

By using @kuruman's guidance and drawing the force triangle for the forces acting at point B, the problem can be solved very easily. (So easily that I can tell you the tension without doing any calculations! And the angle is almost as easy.)

By the way:
- use a small 'k' for kilo; capital 'K' means kelvin (a temperature unit);
- do not use 'string' or 'thread' to support 700kg - or there will will be a nasty accident. (Massless string in particular is a well known safety hazard.)
 
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  • #5
JohnnyLaws said:
... I believe I have explained everything in the "Relevant equations" section. What am I doing wrong? The book that I'm reading doesn't have any solutions.
Strings, ropes, cables and chains can only pull.
Therefore, there are three pulling forces acting on point B.
You know the magnitude and direction of two of them, the third one must induce a perfectly balance.
 
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1. How do I find the angle that a string makes with a wall?

To find the angle that a string makes with a wall, you will need to measure the length of the string and the distance between the wall and the point where the string is attached. Then, you can use the inverse sine function (sin^-1) to calculate the angle using the formula: angle = sin^-1 (opposite/hypotenuse).

2. What is the tension in a string?

The tension in a string is the force that is pulling the string in opposite directions at its ends. It is caused by the weight of the object attached to the string and the force applied to the string itself. The tension can be calculated using the formula: tension = mass x acceleration due to gravity.

3. How does the angle affect the tension in a string?

The angle that a string makes with a wall can affect the tension in the string. As the angle increases, the tension in the string also increases. This is because the component of the weight acting in the direction of the string also increases, resulting in a greater tension force.

4. Can the angle and tension in a string be measured simultaneously?

Yes, the angle and tension in a string can be measured simultaneously. You can use a protractor to measure the angle and a spring scale or force sensor to measure the tension in the string. Alternatively, you can use a smartphone app that has a built-in inclinometer and a force sensor to measure both the angle and tension at the same time.

5. What are some real-world applications of finding the angle and tension in a string?

Finding the angle and tension in a string is important in various fields such as engineering, physics, and construction. It is used to determine the stability and strength of structures, such as bridges and buildings. It is also used in sports, such as rock climbing, to ensure the safety of the equipment and the climbers. Additionally, it is used in scientific experiments to study the effects of tension on materials and objects.

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