Finding the Third Force to Achieve Zero Total Torque on an Equilateral Triangle

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining a third force to achieve zero total torque on an equilateral triangle, given two existing forces acting along its sides. The problem involves concepts of torque and force components in a geometric context.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to understand how to begin the problem, considering whether to use component forms of the forces and their tangential components. Some participants suggest that breaking the forces into components could be a useful initial step.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different aspects of the problem. There is a focus on understanding the relationship between the forces and the point of intersection, with some guidance offered regarding the use of components. However, there is no explicit consensus on a specific approach yet.

Contextual Notes

One participant notes a technical issue with viewing the provided image, which may impact the discussion. Additionally, there is a question about determining the perpendicular force relative to the intersection point, indicating a need for clarification on the geometric setup.

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http://img300.imageshack.us/img300/4792/physics1gj9.th.png

"Two forces [tex]F_1[/tex] and [tex]F_2[/tex] act along the two sides of an equilateral triangle as shown...Point O is the intersection of the altitudes of the triangle. Find a third force [tex]F_3[/tex] to be applied at B and along BC that will make the total torque zero about the point O."

So the sum of the torques = 0. I don't know what to do first. Should I put the forces into component form and take the tangential component of the forces??
 
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Unfortunately, I can't see the image, but putting the forces into components would be a good start.
 
Click on the image.
 
merced said:
Click on the image.

I don't have anything to click on, it's my computer, probably. Someone else will be able to give an exact reply to you. In the meantime, prepare some work to present.
 
I guess what I mean is, how do I determine what is perpendicular to the intersection (O)? Because I have to use the perpendicular force right?
 

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