Power series in real world situation

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on deriving the force ratio F/W in a scenario where a weight is suspended by a cable and displaced by a force F. The relationship is established using the equations Tcosθ=W and Tsinθ=F, leading to the expression F/W = tan(θ). The challenge is to express this ratio as a power series in terms of x/l, where l is the cable length. The solution involves expanding tan(θ) using a Taylor series, which is a key method in this context.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of trigonometric functions and their properties
  • Familiarity with power series and Taylor series expansions
  • Basic knowledge of equilibrium in physics
  • Concept of tension in cables and forces acting on suspended weights
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of Taylor series for trigonometric functions
  • Explore applications of power series in physics problems
  • Learn about equilibrium conditions in static systems
  • Investigate the relationship between angles and lengths in trigonometric contexts
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and static equilibrium, as well as educators looking for practical examples of power series applications in real-world scenarios.

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Homework Statement


A heavy weight is suspended by a cable and pulled to one side by a force F. How much force is required to hold the weight in equilibrium at a given distance x to one side. Tcosθ=W and Tsinθ=F. Find F/W as a power series of θ. Often in a problem like this, what we know is not θ, but x and l. Find F/W as a series of powers in x/l.

l is the length if the cable
W is weight
T is the tension in the cable


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



no idea...
 
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The first obvious thing to do is to see that F/W= (T sin(θ))/(Tcos(θ))= tan(θ).

Can you expand that as a power series- say, a Taylor series?
 

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