How Do You Solve These Physics Problems Using Component Methods?

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on solving physics problems using component methods, specifically applying Newton's second law (F = ma) to analyze forces. Participants emphasize the importance of drawing force vectors and breaking them into their x and y components. The conversation highlights the necessity of understanding the relationship between forces and the role of angles in resolving tension forces, particularly T1 and T2. A step-by-step approach is suggested for clarity in solving these types of problems.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's second law (F = ma)
  • Ability to draw and interpret force vectors
  • Knowledge of vector resolution into components
  • Familiarity with the concept of coefficients of friction
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn how to resolve vectors into components using trigonometric functions
  • Study the application of Newton's laws in static equilibrium problems
  • Explore the concept of tension in strings and ropes in physics
  • Practice solving problems involving angles and friction coefficients
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone looking to improve their problem-solving skills in force analysis and vector resolution.

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i can't remember how to do this at all, but can someone just post a simple step by step solution for this? thanks

http://img275.imageshack.us/img275/2392/ss2mx.jpg




also this one I am having trouble with



http://img374.imageshack.us/img374/1146/dfsd4mu.jpg
 
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Use Newton's second law, F = ma and isolate the force components.
 
why don't you start by drawing the force vectors and identifying the relationship between the forces.

it may be easier to draw the vectors on a graph.
 
yea, I am really not remembering this though lol, just started doing this type of problem
 
I don't think a graph is necessary though. Just draw the x and y components of each force. Since T2 is already horizontal on the x axis, you don't need to split it up into x and y because it's all x and no y. That, of course, depends on where you draw your axes.
 
ok, but how exactly do you solve it
 
Since we're not supposed to make it too easy for you. You should draw T1 as a horizontal part and a vertical part, since you know all the forces add up to zero you should be able to work out what the vertical part of T1 is hence T1 hence the horizontal part of T1 hence T2 end of question

For the second question it is a very similar setup just different angles and forces and all you have to do is know how the coeff of friction is defined. If you do the question with g kept as a symbol you will find it cancels out.
 
hmm still kinda confused, any chance you could show me step by step how to solve it


like how do you resolve T1 and T2 to get values using components...like i know the 20 has components of x = 0, and y = -20 right? but how do u get values with the 30 degree angle?
 

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