How does this solution make any sense? (Tension problem)

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on understanding the equilibrant/resultant method in solving tension problems. A participant expresses confusion about how to represent forces F1 and F2 in a triangle, questioning the apparent partial representation of F1. Clarification is provided that the length of the rope does not equate to the length of the force vector, emphasizing that the geometry only indicates force directions. This explanation resolves the confusion, leading to a clearer understanding of the problem. The conversation highlights the importance of distinguishing between physical lengths and vector representations in physics.
Unqualifiedlol
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I know how to solve this problem with x and y components but how do I solve it with the equilibrant/resultant method? I don't understand how you can make a triangle with both F1 and F2 when in the diagram it looks like the magnitude F1 is only partially represented? Why are we just ignoring the rest of the vector? The answer is right of course but I just don't get it
 

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Unqualifiedlol said:
it looks like the magnitude F1 is only partially represented?
It looks fully represented to me. Can you explain your issue a bit more?
 
haruspex said:
It looks fully represented to me. Can you explain your issue a bit more?
Well, because F1 is the tension of the left rope right? In the triangle, it seems like only a section of the "rope" is included in the triangle, while the rest is excluded. Why is that?
 
Unqualifiedlol said:
Well, because F1 is the tension of the left rope right? In the triangle, it seems like only a section of the "rope" is included in the triangle, while the rest is excluded. Why is that?
You appear to be confusing length of rope with length of force vector. The geometry of the rope only tells you the directions of the forces.
 
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haruspex said:
You appear to be confusing length of rope with length of force vector. The geometry of the rope only tells you the directions of the forces.
Thank you so much, that cleared it all up haha.
 

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