Finding the tension of two cables holding an object at rest

[WOLFY302]

A 30 kg sphere is held stationary by two cables. One cable is attached at 60° above horizontal. The second cable is horizontal and attached at the side of the sphere. Find the tension in both cables.

Newton's 2nd law: F=ma, which means a = (∑F/m)
We can also find the weight: W = mg

Let's say that the tension for the angled cable is T₁ and the tension for the horizontal cable is T₂. Weight is mg, or (30 kg)(9.8 m/s^2). Acceleration is zero since the sphere is stationary, which means 0 = (∑F/m).

I'm not sure what to do from here. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

WOLFY

 

[BvU]

Your $\sum F$ is a vector sum $\sum \vec F$. How about that ?

 

[WOLFY302]

Your $\sum F$ is a vector sum $\sum \vec F$. How about that ?

I understand but how do I get to finding tension?

 

[gneill]

I understand but how do I get to finding tension?

Vectors have components...

Which components have to hold up the sphere (against what)? Which components have to balance each other so the sphere doesn't move sideways?

 

[BvU]

You did make a sketch, right ? Does it show what $\sum F =0$ means ?

And, uh, !

 

[michael06]

How ∑F∑F is a vector sum ∑→, so difficult.
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http://www.dahezbforming.com/

 

[BvU]

A vector is zero if all its (cartesian) components are zero
can you post your sketch (aka free body diagram, which google if not known) ?

 

[CWatters]

Have you been taught how to approach statics problems? In short... The net force in any direction is zero. So you can write simultaneous equations, perhaps one for the vertical direction and one for the horizontal direction. Then solve them to find whatever value the question asks for.