Force at Equilibrium: How to Solve X and Y Components of Tension

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the equilibrium of forces at a point where three ropes meet, specifically focusing on the X and Y components of tension. The original poster is attempting to understand how to balance these components given a specific weight.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the need to balance horizontal and vertical forces, leading to two equations with two unknowns. Questions arise about the method of calculating the weight of one of the forces based on the components of the system.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants exploring different interpretations of the problem and clarifying the relationships between the forces involved. Some guidance has been provided regarding the equations needed to solve for the unknowns, but there is no explicit consensus on the approach yet.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of an image that may provide additional context, but it is not available in the discussion. The original poster expresses uncertainty about their initial approach and seeks further clarification on the calculations involved.

GOPgabe
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Homework Statement


I have an actual image which is quite better than my poor descriptive skills

PhysProblem.png


Homework Equations


The X and Y components of each tension must balance.

The Attempt at a Solution



I thought if F3 weighs 200N then that mean the X component of Fw1 must equal
Fw1 tan(35)=200. Clearly I was wrong based on the answer. How would I proceed from here? Any help would be much appreciated.
 
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At the point where the three ropes meet, the sum of all the horizontal forces is zero and the sum of all the vertical forces is zero. This gives you two equations and you have two unknowns.
 
kuruman said:
At the point where the three ropes meet, the sum of all the horizontal forces is zero and the sum of all the vertical forces is zero. This gives you two equations and you have two unknowns.

I think I got it now, just one question. Are you supposed to add the vertical components of both of the systems in order to get the weight of Fw1?
 
GOPgabe said:
I think I got it now, just one question. Are you supposed to add the vertical components of both of the systems in order to get the weight of Fw1?
I am not sure what you mean by "both systems". Your system in this case is the knot where all three ropes are tied together. There are three forces acting on it, and the sum of these forces is zero.
 

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