Finding the Magnitude of a Vertical Force in a Simple 3D Statics Problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the magnitude of a vertical force F in a 3D statics problem where cable AB is under a tension of 700N. The user plans to decompose the tension into its x, y, and z components, leading to three equations with three unknowns: F, AC, and AD. The consensus is that using unit vectors (i, j, k) simplifies the calculations, especially when angles are not provided. The correct approach involves ensuring that the total tension of 700N is applied to the entire cable rather than its components.

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Homework Statement


If cable AB is subjected to a tension of 700N determine the magnitude of the vertical force F in N.

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[PLAIN]http://img225.imageshack.us/img225/9823/capturespm.png


Homework Equations


Sum of forces in x y and z direction


The Attempt at a Solution


I am retaking my statics course after i switched majors (long story) and i kind of forgot how to solve this the RIGHT way.

My approach would be first breaking up all the tensions in the x y and z components and summing all of those. I'll end up with 3 equations and 3 unknowns (F, AC and AD). I just feel like that's too much work...

On top of that my book makes use of i j and k but in those problems angles are given (which does make it easier to calculate the components)

Could someone give me a quick rundown on how to solve this?
 
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Sounds like you're doing it right. You've got the forces broken down, solve for the unknowns. Make sure that you're assuming |AB| to be 700N not anyone component of it.
 
turns out working with unit vectors and i j and k is much easier! Thanks for the reply though!
 

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