Physics question: Finding 2 angles with given tensions and mass

[MadameCassie]

Homework Statement

Suppose the traffic light (1.00 x 10^2 N) is hung so that the tensions T1 and T2 are both equal to 80.0 N. Find the new angles they make with respect to the x axis. (By symmetry, these angles will be the same.)

Homework Equations

Fx = 0 = -T1 cos theta + T2 cos theta
Fy = 0 = T1 sin theta + T2 sin theta - 1.00 x 10^2

The Attempt at a Solution

Fx = 0 = -80 cos theta + 80 cos theta
Fy = 0 = 80 sin theta + 80 sin theta - 1.00 x 10^2

 

[tiny-tim]

Welcome to PF!

Hi MadameCassie! Welcome to PF!

(have a theta: θ )

Fy = 0 = 80 sin theta + 80 sin theta - 1.00 x 10^2

Yes, you're almost there.

So θ = … ?

 

[MadameCassie]

Thanks tiny tim! Nice to meet you! :)

It's kinda hard to solve for theta. I've been setting up the problem and it comes out not right.

 

[tiny-tim]

show us your full calculations, and then we'll see what went wrong, and we'll know how to help!

 

[MadameCassie]

Fy = 0 = 80 sin theta + 80 sin theta - 1.00 x 10^2
0=160 sin θ- 100 N
0=60 sin θ
-60=sin θ

 

[tiny-tim]

0=160 sin θ- 100 N
0=60 sin θ

Noooo …

0=160 sinθ - 100 N

160 sin θ = 100 N

get some sleep! :zzz:​

 

[MadameCassie]

haha I get it! Thanks so much!