Solving for Force Q to Achieve Equilibrium for 2 Rods Connected by a Wire

In summary, the problem involves two collars connected by a wire and subjected to a force P= (341 N)j at collar A. The goal is to find the tension of the wire and the magnitude of force Q to maintain equilibrium when y=155mm. Using the equations for equilibrium and considering Newton's 3rd Law of Motion, the tension on the wire is found to have three components in the x, y, and z directions. Further calculations are needed to determine the values of these components and find the solution.
  • #1
MechTech
15
0
1. Collars A & B are connected by a 525-mm long wire and can slide freely on frictionless rods. If force P= (341 N)j is applied to collar A determine the tension of the wire when y=155mm and the magnitude of force Q(which is along the z axis) to maintain equilibrium

2. Homework Equations
[tex]\Sigma[/tex]F=0

[tex]\overline{v}[/tex]=[tex]\sqrt{vx^2+vy^2+vz^2}[/tex]

3. The Attempt at a Solution

I was given y was 155mm and x=200mm and found the z value of the wire to be 460mm. I then created a unit vector for the wire and came up with these equilibrium formulas:

[tex]\Sigma[/tex]Fx=[tex]200/525[/tex]Tab=0 (Something is wrong here)

[tex]\Sigma[/tex]Fy=[tex]-155/525[/tex]Tab=-341N

[tex]\Sigma[/tex]Fz=Q+[tex]460/525[/tex]Tab=0

Now I'm stuck...can anyone lead me in the right direction?
 
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  • #2
Think about Newton's 3rd Law of Motion - action and reaction. So you know that a force P acting on point A will make it move up and also create tension on T(ab). However, you know also that T(ab) must have three components of xyz. The problem is that point A can only move at y axis, but to satisfy equilibrium, there must be a hidden force opposite of T(ab) in which it will make the sum of the forces on x and z zero.
 

What is the definition of equilibrium?

Equilibrium is a state in which all forces acting on a system are balanced, resulting in no acceleration or change in motion.

Why is it important to solve for force Q in a system of two rods connected by a wire?

In order for the system to remain in equilibrium, the total forces acting on the rods must be balanced. By solving for force Q, we can determine the amount of force needed to achieve this balance.

What factors affect the calculation of force Q in this system?

The factors that affect the calculation of force Q include the length and weight of the rods, the angle at which they are connected, and the properties of the wire such as its tension and flexibility.

How can the calculation of force Q be applied in real-world scenarios?

The calculation of force Q can be applied in various engineering and physics applications, such as designing structures or analyzing the stability of objects under different forces.

What are some potential limitations or sources of error in solving for force Q in this system?

Some potential limitations or sources of error in solving for force Q include inaccuracies in measurements, assumptions made about the system, and external factors that may affect the forces acting on the rods and wire.

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