Determine the magnitude of the resultant force

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves determining the magnitude of the resultant force given a specific force value and direction. The context is within the realm of vector forces and their components.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the need to isolate the angle theta in the equations provided, while also questioning the necessity of finding theta to determine the resultant force. There are attempts to clarify which variable is essential for the solution.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the problem and the variables involved. Some guidance has been offered regarding focusing on the resultant force rather than theta, but uncertainty remains about how to proceed without determining theta first.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of the resultant force acting along the positive u axis, which may influence the approach to solving the problem. Participants are also navigating the constraints of the homework task, which may limit their methods of solution.

Precursor
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Homework Statement
If [tex]F_{B} = 5kN[/tex] and the resultant force acts along the positive u axis, determine the magnitude of the resultant force.

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The attempt at a solution

[tex]F_{Rx} = F_{R}cos 30[/tex]

[tex]F_{Ry} = F_{R}sin 30[/tex]

[tex]F_{Rx} = 3 + 5cos\theta[/tex]

[tex]F_{Ry} = 5sin\theta[/tex]

Therefore, [tex]\frac{3 + 5cos\theta}{5sin\theta} = \sqrt{3}[/tex]

Is this correct so far? I don't know how to isolate [tex]\theta[/tex]
 
Last edited:
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What variable is the problem asking you to find?
 
diazona said:
What variable is the problem asking you to find?

It is asking for the resultant force which acts along the u axis.
 
Precursor said:
It is asking for the resultant force which acts along the u axis.
That is right so you don't have to find [tex]\theta[/tex]
 
Winzer said:
That is right so you don't have to find [tex]\theta[/tex]

Then how would I go about finding the resultant force? Using a combination of the equations I posted in my attempt?
 
Yep. I asked which variable the question was asking for for a reason; make sure you know which variable you need to find the value of and don't let it disappear when you combine the equations.
 
diazona said:
Yep. I asked which variable the question was asking for for a reason; make sure you know which variable you need to find the value of and don't let it disappear when you combine the equations.

But I still don't see how I can solve for the resultant force without first solving for theta. Am I missing something?
 

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