Physics question: Finding 2 angles with given tensions and mass

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around solving for the angles made by two tensions (T1 and T2) of 80.0 N each, supporting a traffic light weighing 100 N. The equations of equilibrium for the x and y components are established, leading to the equation 160 sin θ = 100 N. Participants encourage sharing full calculations to identify errors in the setup. The conversation highlights the importance of careful algebraic manipulation in solving for the angle θ. The thread emphasizes collaborative problem-solving in physics homework.
MadameCassie
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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
 
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Welcome to PF!

Hi MadameCassie! Welcome to PF! :smile:

(have a theta: θ :wink:)
MadameCassie said:
Fy = 0 = 80 sin theta + 80 sin theta - 1.00 x 10^2

Yes, you're almost there.

So θ = … ? :smile:
 
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.
 
show us your full calculations, and then we'll see what went wrong, and we'll know how to help! :smile:
 
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
 
MadameCassie said:
0=160 sin θ- 100 N
0=60 sin θ

Noooo :redface:

0=160 sinθ - 100 N

160 sin θ = 100 N :smile:

get some sleep! :zzz:​
 
haha I get it! Thanks so much!
 
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