Solving Cable Tension Problem with Given Angles and Mass

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the tension in two cables supporting a 16.00 kg mass, with specific angles given for each cable relative to the ceiling. The context is centered around the principles of static equilibrium and the application of Newton's laws.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the need for a more accurate sketch to aid in understanding the geometry and trigonometry involved. There are mentions of deriving equations from the sum of forces and the importance of equilibrium. Some participants express confusion about the setup due to the mass being supported at two points rather than one.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing guidance on how to approach the problem. There is recognition of the need for additional equations to solve for the unknown tensions, and suggestions are made to consider both horizontal and vertical components of the forces involved.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the original poster has been absent from class, which may contribute to their confusion regarding the problem. There is an emphasis on using the correct units and understanding the setup of the problem, particularly regarding the distribution of weight across the cables.

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Homework Statement


Two cables are attached to a 16.00 kg mass, or 160 N (Our teacher told us to use 10 for gravity). The angle between the cable on the left and the ceiling is 48 degrees. The angle between the cable on the right and the ceiling is 22 degrees. Calculate the tension in the cable on the left if the system is at rest. Calculate the tension in the cable on the right if the system is at rest.

I have been absent from class, so I can't really attempt at a solution. Any help would be appreciated.


Homework Equations


T1cos(∅)1=T2cos(∅)2

T1/T2=cos(∅)2/cos(∅)1

The Attempt at a Solution

 

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1. You should draw your sketch more to scale to help with the geometry and trig.
2. The mass is given in kg, so you should calculate its weight in Newtons, not pounds.
3. Please show an attempt based on what you know about equilibrium and Newton's laws.
 
It's sort of hard to make a drawing to scale; i just drew that picture because it was a given and I thought it would help. I have already converted to Newtons.
 
Ok, then please show an attempt at a solution and someone will check your work and provide assistance if necessary.
 
Sorry, I put it in the post now, but I haven't been to class and I'm lost on how to do this type of problem. I've been watching videos on it, but I can't find anything similar to this problem in that the cables connect to two parts of the mass rather than just one point
 
So far you have two unknowns and one equation. Do you know how that one was derived, from sum of forces? Now you need another equation. I'd recommend one that descrbies the tension in an individual cable. Or you could just do some simple trig to find the tensions.
 
Last edited:
ChessFanatic said:
Sorry, I put it in the post now, but I haven't been to class and I'm lost on how to do this type of problem. I've been watching videos on it, but I can't find anything similar to this problem in that the cables connect to two parts of the mass rather than just one point
For all intent and purpose, you can assume the mass is attached at one point, rather than splitting the weight between 2 points . As has been noted, you already have one equation in the horizontal direction, now you need to look in the vertical direction to get the other.
 

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