How to Solve for A and Theta in a Difficult Vector Problem?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a vector problem involving the resultant of three forces, where participants are tasked with determining the magnitudes of force A and the angle Theta using the component method. The forces are defined with specific angles and magnitudes, and the resultant force is provided.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss breaking down the forces into their components and setting up equations based on the x and y components of the resultant force. There are attempts to express A in terms of Theta and to solve a system of equations, but uncertainty remains about the methods and steps to isolate the variables.

Discussion Status

Some participants have suggested methods to isolate A and Theta by substituting one equation into another. However, there is a lack of consensus on the best approach to solve the system, with some expressing confusion about handling the trigonometric functions involved.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention varying levels of familiarity with solving systems of equations, particularly those involving trigonometric functions, which may affect their ability to progress in the problem. There is also a reference to the absence of linear algebra experience among some participants.

ur5pointos2sl
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< is the angle symbol here.

R is the resultant of three forces A,B,C that is R = A+B+C
If A = A<210, B=200 < Theta, C=200 <65, and R = 250 <125, use the component method to determine A and Theta.

ok so I broke them into their components and now I have no idea how to find A and Theta

Ax = A cos 30
Ay = A sin 30
Bx = 200 cos Theta or possibly could be 200 sin Theta
By = 200 sin Theta or 200 cos Theta
Cx=200 cos 65
Cy = 200 sin 65
Rx = 250 sin 35
Ry = 250 cos 35

A cos 30 + 200 cos Theta + 200 cos 65 = 250 sin 35

A sin 30 + 200 sin Theta + 200 sin 65 = 250 cos 35

would this be the correct approach? How in the world would you solve for A or Theta?
 
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Acos210+200cos\theta = 250cos135-200cos65
Asin210+200sin\theta = 250sin135-200sin65
You have two equations with two unknows, so you have a system and can find the variables.
 
Last edited:
Jebus_Chris said:
Acos210+200cos\theta = 250cos135-200cos65
Asin210+200sin\theta = 250sin135-200sin65
You have two equations with two unknows, so you have a system and can find the variables.


I am not really sure how to solve the system. I haven't taken linear algebra and surely haven't dealt with any systems like this. Could someone please help
 
Just solve for A and substitute.
 
Solve one for A and the plug that into the other and then you can find theta.
 
Jebus_Chris said:
Solve one for A and the plug that into the other and then you can find theta.

ok sounds simple enough..let me try and see
 
ur5pointos2sl said:
ok sounds simple enough..let me try and see

ok maybe not so simple..I am going to have to pass on this. I cannot solve this system to save my life.

I get

A = (30.2 - 200 cos Theta)/cos 30

and

A=(23.4 - 200 sin Theta)/sin 30

not even sure if this is correct..if I plug in A then I have Cos and Sin in one equation and not sure what to do with it.:confused:
 
You know A in terms of \theta, so take one of your values for A and place it into the other equation. Then you'll have only constants and \theta in the resulting equation.
 

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