Calculating Repulsive Force Between Parallel Wires

[cdotter]

Homework Statement

[PLAIN]http://img813.imageshack.us/img813/6592/36756643.png

Homework Equations

$$F=\mu_0\frac{II'L}{2\pi r}$$

The Attempt at a Solution

The wires have a weight $$\lambda Lg$$. They require an equal but opposite force to keep them at equilibrium at 6.00 degrees. This force comes from the repulsion between the oppositely flowing currents in the wires, given by
$$F=\mu_0\frac{I^2L}{2\pi r}$$. The distance r between the two wires is $$sin(6.00 degrees)*0.0400 m*2$$.

I'm stuck at the components of the forces. Could someone give me a hint? I'm terrible at geometry.

 

[tiny-tim]

hi cdotter!

I'm stuck at the components of the forces. Could someone give me a hint? I'm terrible at geometry.

hint: call the tension in each string T,

and do components of forces in the y and x directions

 

[cdotter]

hi cdotter!


hint: call the tension in each string T,

and do components of forces in the y and x directions

Got it, thank you.