Algebraic Equations for Basic Tension in a Hanging Block System

[shotgunbob]

Basic Tension question- 5 kg block hanging from a string with one side at 30 degrees and the otherside at 45 degrees.

Fnet,x=t1x-t2x=0
Gravity assumed at 10 m/s2 (in the book)
I got to:
T1(cos 30)-T2(Cos45)=0 for the total forces in the x direction and
T1(sin 30) + T2(sin 45)-(50 N)= 0 for the y direction

I know I am supposed to use algebra but i never was very good with numbers. How I got into AP physics, I'll never know! Thanks in advance!

 

[pooface]

doing good. you have two unknowns in one equation. how about some rearranging to evaluate for one T and using some substitution?

Hint: What is T1 equal to? (not asking for the tension value)

 

[shotgunbob]

hmmm t1= t2 (cos 45)/cos 30)

So now I have T2((cos45)/(cos30))-T2Cos45

For which I get .8164965809 hmmmmm where did i go wrong

 

[chocokat]

Close, but not quite. You're right:

T1 = T2(cos45)/(cos 30)

now take this and use it for the T1 in the other equation, then solve for T2. You should be good to go.