Magnitude of force exerted by cables on a tower

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the magnitudes of forces FAC and FAD exerted by three cables on a 70 m high tower, given that the force FAB is 2 kN and the vector sum of forces in the x and z dimensions is zero. Participants emphasize the necessity of setting the sum of forces in all three dimensions to zero to solve for the cable tensions. The approach involves using the lengths and unit vectors of the cables, which have already been determined, to derive the unknown forces.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector forces and equilibrium conditions
  • Knowledge of trigonometric functions for resolving forces
  • Familiarity with cable tension analysis in structural engineering
  • Proficiency in using vector notation and calculations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of static equilibrium in structures
  • Learn how to resolve forces into components using trigonometry
  • Explore methods for calculating cable tensions in engineering applications
  • Review examples of vector sum calculations in three dimensions
USEFUL FOR

Structural engineers, physics students, and anyone involved in analyzing forces in cable-supported structures will benefit from this discussion.

CoilMaker
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Given the tower is 70 m high, and the force of FAB= 2 kN and the x and z components of the vector sum of the forces exerted on the tower by the 3 cables are zero. I have found the lengths of all 3 cables. I have also found the unit vectors for all 3 cables. I just do not know how to find the magnitude of FAC and FAD. I have attached a screen shot of the drawing and my work.
 

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The vector sum of all the forces on the tower has to equal zero. Write the sum of the forces in each of the 3 dimentions (including the forces at the bottom of the tower), and set them to zero. You should have enough information to solve for the cable tensions.
 

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