Calculate Tension: Find T in A & B Cords

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the tension in two cords based on a static equilibrium scenario. The original poster is tasked with finding the tension in cords A and B, given a weight W and a diagram that is referenced but not provided in the text.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the use of trigonometry to resolve tensions in terms of the weight W. There are attempts to establish equations based on the components of the tensions in both x and y directions. Some participants express confusion about the variables involved and the overall setup of the problem.

Discussion Status

Several participants have offered insights into the relationships between the tensions and the weight, suggesting that the system can be analyzed using equilibrium equations. However, there is no explicit consensus on the final approach or solution, and some participants are still questioning the setup and the variables involved.

Contextual Notes

There is a lack of numerical values provided in the problem, which some participants note complicates the ability to find specific solutions. The original poster also expresses uncertainty about the website's functionality, indicating a potential barrier to effective participation.

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Homework Statement


All i was given on the problem was find the tension in each cord in the figure below.

http://img181.imageshack.us/img181/6417/physicsproblemua3.th.jpg


Homework Equations


Calculate the tension in each cord below.


The Attempt at a Solution



T(C) = W

I know you have to use trigonometry to find the tension in A & B, but without any numbers being given i can't figure anything out.
 
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sorry about the image, but it was the only way i could include the diagram. You are able to click it to make it bigger
 
You have enough to solve it in terms of W.

Evaluate the vector components in the x,y direction.

They yield 2 equations in T1 and T2. (In terms of W that is.)
 
Tc = w

By = Sin(45)*B

Ay = Sin(30)*A

Is that all you would have to do to solve the problem?
 
That would be a no.

Since the system is static the sum of the y components of the tensions = W
And since it is balanced left to right then the x components add to 0.
 
so if By+Ay+C = W

and

Ax-Bx = 0

then

A would be equal to: (w-c-sin(45)B) / sin(30)

and B is: (w-c-sin(30)A) / sin(45)

I know there has to be one more part to the solution because even though if you know w, you know c, you still would have one additional variable that's unknown.
 
I don't understand how this website works! =/
 
There is no C.

C is W.

Yielding equations such that

1/2*T1 + (√2/2)*T2 = W

And

(√3/2)*T1 = (√2/2)*T2
 
drumjunkie said:
I don't understand how this website works! =/

If you have questions about homework problems that you need help with, if you post them and explain what you might be having difficulty understanding someone may help you.

On other areas of the site there are discussions of various topics of interest.
 

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