Engineering mechanics question

In summary, the problem involves finding the tension in two cables against a wall while holding a weight of 200 kg. The given information includes the x- and y-components of the forces acting on the cables, which should sum to zero and be equal in magnitude to the weight. However, the equations provided do not seem to be accurate, as the sum of the squares of the sine and cosine values do not equal 1. Further clarification and a more detailed solution are needed.
  • #1
stacy123
2
0
how do you find tension in two cables set against a wall will holding a weight of 200 kg up


The Attempt at a Solution


ƩFx: 0.86Fad +0.72Fac=0
ƩFy: -0.37Fad + -0.64Fac = -1960

Homework Statement

 
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  • #2
Welcome to PF

You haven't provided enough information. You need to give us the *exact* problem statement (verbatim). I can't evaluate whether your attempt at a solution is a good start if I don't even know what numbers you have been given.

The general idea that the x-components should sum to zero and the y components should together be equal and opposite to the weight is correct.
 
  • #3
http://https://bay167.mail.live.com/att/GetAttachment.aspx?tnail=0&messageId=3dfae626-3d1b-11e3-8d8f-002264c17d58&Aux=2354|0|8D09F3F28148770||0|1|0|0|7|5,11,53&cid=e8972162f752523d&maxwidth=220&maxheight=160&size=Att
 
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  • #4
Unfortunately, your image doesn't show up. Can you just tell me the angle of each wire from the vertical (or from the horizontal)? And, can you write down your solution in more detail, so that instead of having a bunch of "magic numbers" in it, it's more clear where you are getting those numbers from?
 
  • #5
Stacy,

It doesn't seem like your equations can be correct. The 0.86 and the 0.37 are supposed to represent the sine and cosine of a certain angle, but the sum of their squares does not add up to 1. The same goes for the 0.72 and the 0.64.

Chet
 

1. What is Engineering Mechanics?

Engineering Mechanics is a branch of science that applies the principles of physics and mathematics to analyze and predict the behavior of structures and systems under different types of forces or loads.

2. What are the main areas of study in Engineering Mechanics?

The main areas of study in Engineering Mechanics include statics, dynamics, mechanics of materials, and fluid mechanics. Statics deals with the analysis of stationary or non-moving systems, while dynamics focuses on the study of moving systems. Mechanics of materials deals with the behavior of materials under different types of loads, and fluid mechanics studies the behavior of fluids in motion.

3. How is Engineering Mechanics used in real-world applications?

Engineering Mechanics is used in a wide range of real-world applications, such as designing buildings, bridges, and other structures, developing new materials, and designing machines and vehicles. It is also used in various areas of engineering, including civil, mechanical, aerospace, and biomedical engineering.

4. What are the key principles of Engineering Mechanics?

The key principles of Engineering Mechanics include Newton's Laws of Motion, which describe the relationship between forces and motion, and the laws of conservation of energy and momentum, which state that energy and momentum cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred or transformed. Other key principles include equilibrium, the study of forces in balance, and deformation, the study of how forces change the shape or size of a structure or material.

5. What skills are needed to excel in Engineering Mechanics?

To excel in Engineering Mechanics, one needs to have a strong foundation in physics and mathematics, as well as critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Other important skills include the ability to visualize and interpret 3D systems, proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) software, and the ability to work well in a team environment.

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