How Do You Calculate Force in Equilibrium Using Calculus?

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In summary, the problem involves determining the required force F to hold a weight in equilibrium at a given distance x, using the equations Tcos(theta) = W and Tsin(theta) = F. The first part involves finding F/W as a series of powers of theta, while the second part involves finding F/W as a series of powers of x/l. This can be solved using a binomial expansion.
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BigFlorida
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Homework Statement




  • The figure shows a heavy weight suspended by a cable and pulled to one side by a force F. We want to know how much force F is required to hold the weight in equilibrium at a given distance x to one side (say to place a cornerstone correctly). From elementary physics, T cos θ = W , and T sin θ = F .
    1. (a) Find F/W as a series of powers of θ.
    2. (b) Usually in a problem like this, what we know is not θ, but x

      and l in the diagram. Find F/W as a series of powers of x/l.

    Homework Equations

    [/b]

    Tcos(theta) = W
    Tsin(theta) = F
    sin(theta) = (x/l)
    cos(theta) = sqrt(l^2-x^2) = sqrt(1-(x/l)^2)[/B]

    The Attempt at a Solution



    The first part was a relatively simple solve, it was just a power series of the tangent function.

    The second part is what I am stuck on.

    I have (F/W) = (x/l)(1/sqrt(1-(x/l)^2)), but I have no clue how to turn the right side of this equation into a power series. Should I just create 2 different functions (one where x is a function of l and another where l is a function of x) and write 2 power series, or is there a way that I am not seeing? I have also tried just letting theta = arcsin(x/l) and substituting that into the power series I found in part 1, but that solution was incorrect. I am at a complete loss. Any help would be much appreciated.

    Thanks in advance!
 
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  • #2
Never mind, I solved it. It was a simple binomial expansion that I was overlooking.
 
  • #3
I am still struck at the second part. can you please explain how you have solved it.
Thanks in advance
 
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1. What is calculus-based physics?

Calculus-based physics is a branch of physics that uses calculus to describe and analyze the behavior of physical systems. It involves using mathematical equations and principles to understand the motion, forces, and energy of objects.

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Calculus is used in physics to describe and analyze the motion of objects. It helps us understand how objects move and interact with each other by using mathematical concepts such as derivatives and integrals to calculate changes in position, velocity, acceleration, and other physical quantities.

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The main difference between calculus-based physics and algebra-based physics is the use of mathematical tools. While algebra-based physics uses basic algebraic equations, calculus-based physics relies on more advanced mathematical concepts such as derivatives and integrals. This allows for a more precise and detailed analysis of physical systems.

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