Free Body Diagram Help: Solving a System of Equations for Forces (PreCalc)

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on solving a system of equations for forces in a free body diagram context, specifically involving forces B and C, and a downward force W. The user calculated components of the forces using trigonometric functions, leading to equations ΣFx and ΣFy. The user initially arrived at B=434 and C=470, but the correct values are B=478 and C=518, indicating a miscalculation in the weight of the crate, which should not be 500.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of trigonometric functions, specifically sine and cosine.
  • Familiarity with free body diagrams and force components.
  • Knowledge of solving systems of equations, particularly elimination methods.
  • Basic principles of physics related to forces and equilibrium.
NEXT STEPS
  • Review trigonometric identities and their applications in physics problems.
  • Practice solving systems of equations using elimination and substitution methods.
  • Study free body diagram techniques for analyzing forces in static equilibrium.
  • Explore common mistakes in physics calculations and how to avoid them.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying precalculus, physics enthusiasts, and anyone looking to improve their problem-solving skills in mechanics and force analysis.

Frankenstein19
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Homework Statement


upload_2016-9-11_2-30-0.png


Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


I got the components of each force. I called the Force from BA "B" and the force from CA "C" and then the force going downward on D "W"

FBy=sin30*B
FBx=-cos30*B

FCy=3/5*C
FCx=4/5*C

W=-500
~~~~~~
ΣFx= -B*cos30 + 4/5C = 0
ΣFy= B*sin30 + 3/5C - 500 = 0

-0.866*B +0.8C=0
0.5*B+0.6C=500

Now when I solve the system of equations by elimination I'm getting B=434 and C=470 (I even checked on a calculator) , but the back of the book says 478 for B and 518 for CWhat am I doing wrong?

I know this is kind of a dumb question like it's basic precalc but I've done it so many times over and over again I don't know what I am going wrong
 
Physics news on Phys.org
You make a careless mistake with the weight of the crate. It is not 500, check again and you will get the correct answer =)
 
honlin said:
You make a careless mistake with the weight of the crate. It is not 500, check again and you will get the correct answer =)
jvhgvhgvhgvhjsd TRUE <3 thank you
 

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