Finding Tension and w2: Solving for Angle Alpha

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around solving for tension (T) and weight (W2) in a cable system, specifically finding angle alpha, which is crucial for the calculations. The user struggles to determine angle alpha despite using geometry resources, as the problem lacks sufficient context. They note that the setup involves two equations with three unknowns, making it underdetermined. The tension T is stated to be 110, but this information was not initially provided, complicating the solution process. Ultimately, the problem is deemed unsolvable without additional details regarding angle alpha.
dvsumosize
Messages
12
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


Find Tension T and w2 in each cable in diagram.
Diagram: http://i52.tinypic.com/8z33ub.jpg (i drew this in paint, sorry if it looks bad)

Homework Equations


only basic algebra is needed

The Attempt at a Solution



To find T and w2 i need to find angle Alpha but i cannot seem to come up with a way to be able to find it. I have looked at geometry books to try to solve the angle using the other angle given but it is not possible for me. Once i get alpha i will be able to solve for T and W2 but finding angle alpha has proven to be impossible for me.
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
The problem needs more context. However, if the weight is free to move, then it will be in the center which will give equal angles.
 
It is not free to move and that's the only information given and our professor expects us to solve. The T line is 40 degrees from horizontal axis, the W2 line is alpha degrees, it is a tension problem so the lines cannot stretch or bend, all the Forces just have to have net of 0.

The exact directions on the sheet with the diagram are "Find the tension T and W2 in each cable in the diagram below"
 
Last edited:
to find the Net x Force for T or W2 i know this equation is to be used:
(-) T cos 40 + W2 Cos Alpha = 0

And when it comes to the Net y Forces, this equation is used:
T sin 40 + W2 sin alpha = 220

but my problem is still finding that alpha, after i do i can just substitute and solve. But so far, that alpha has eluded me.
 
So the problem here is that you have two equations and three unknowns, which makes the system underdetermined. I don't know what to tell you. If this is the only information you have the problem is simply unsolvable.
 
as it turns out the T = 110, our professor told us he forgot to include that. :<
 
Kindly see the attached pdf. My attempt to solve it, is in it. I'm wondering if my solution is right. My idea is this: At any point of time, the ball may be assumed to be at an incline which is at an angle of θ(kindly see both the pics in the pdf file). The value of θ will continuously change and so will the value of friction. I'm not able to figure out, why my solution is wrong, if it is wrong .
Thread 'Voltmeter readings for this circuit with switches'
TL;DR Summary: I would like to know the voltmeter readings on the two resistors separately in the picture in the following cases , When one of the keys is closed When both of them are opened (Knowing that the battery has negligible internal resistance) My thoughts for the first case , one of them must be 12 volt while the other is 0 The second case we'll I think both voltmeter readings should be 12 volt since they are both parallel to the battery and they involve the key within what the...
Thread 'Correct statement about a reservoir with an outlet pipe'
The answer to this question is statements (ii) and (iv) are correct. (i) This is FALSE because the speed of water in the tap is greater than speed at the water surface (ii) I don't even understand this statement. What does the "seal" part have to do with water flowing out? Won't the water still flow out through the tap until the tank is empty whether the reservoir is sealed or not? (iii) In my opinion, this statement would be correct. Increasing the gravitational potential energy of the...
Back
Top