Resolving forces in the direction perpendicular to a line

Click For Summary
To resolve forces perpendicular to a line, it's essential to sketch the appropriate triangle for the forces F1 and F2. Using the sine or cosine rule can help in determining the components of these forces. The key is to focus on the forces that act perpendicular to the lever with respect to the fulcrum A. By accurately labeling the forces and applying basic trigonometry, the correct answers can be derived. Understanding these concepts is crucial for solving similar problems effectively.
Bolter
Messages
262
Reaction score
31
Homework Statement
See below
Relevant Equations
N/A
Hi I'm very stuck on what to do for these 2 questions I got wrong

Screenshot 2020-10-16 at 12.17.44.png

Screenshot 2020-10-16 at 12.17.56.png


Can someone please help me on what triangle I need to sketch out in order to find the 2 components of forces for F1 and F2. I'm assuming you have to make use of the sine or cosine rule here

I'd be grateful for any help given! Thanks
 
Physics news on Phys.org
What have you done so far?
Remember that what counts here are the actual forces that are perpendicular to the levers, all respect to the fulcrum A.
 
  • Like
Likes Bolter
What are the horizontal and vertical components of force F1?
 
I actually managed to find the right answer at the end by drawing triangles and labelling the forces that are perpendicular to the line AB. Then with some basic trig I got the force needed
 
  • Like
Likes Lnewqban
The book claims the answer is that all the magnitudes are the same because "the gravitational force on the penguin is the same". I'm having trouble understanding this. I thought the buoyant force was equal to the weight of the fluid displaced. Weight depends on mass which depends on density. Therefore, due to the differing densities the buoyant force will be different in each case? Is this incorrect?

Similar threads

  • · Replies 27 ·
Replies
27
Views
2K
Replies
30
Views
4K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • · Replies 25 ·
Replies
25
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K