Help with force question? i dont know how to get the right answer?

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To find the forces exerted by each lifeguard on the raft, the equations F1 + F2 = 304 N and F1 - F2 = -115 N can be solved simultaneously. By adding these two equations, the result is 2F1 = 189 N, leading to F1 = 94.5 N for the larger force. Substituting F1 back into either equation allows for the calculation of F2, resulting in F2 = 209.5 N for the smaller force. This method effectively utilizes algebraic manipulation to determine the individual forces. The discussion emphasizes the importance of combining equations to solve for unknowns in physics problems.
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Two lifeguards pull on ropes attached to a raft. If they pull in the same direction, the raft experiences a net external force of 304 N to the right. If they pull in opposite directions, the raft experiences a net external force of 115 N to the left.

Find the force exerted by each lifeguard on the raft. (Disregard any other forces acting on the raft.)
____N( larger force)
____N( smaller force)



ive set it up at F1 + F2 = 304 and F1 - F2 = -115 , but i don't know what to do with that, how am i supposed to find the forces? i feel like I am just forgetting a simple math tool haha
 
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snash1057 said:
ive set it up at F1 + F2 = 304 and F1 - F2 = -115 , but i don't know what to do with that, how am i supposed to find the forces? i feel like I am just forgetting a simple math tool haha

So let's call

F1+F2=304 ...eq'n 1

F1-F2=115...eq'2

What happens if we add eq'n 1 to eq'n 2 :wink:?
 

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