Solving for Alpha in Mechanics: Trig Formulas and Force Components

In summary, the conversation discusses a mechanics question involving forces and their components in the x and y directions. The resultant force, represented by R, is known to be at a maximum of 600N. The question is how to solve for the angle alpha, which cannot be isolated using trigonometric formulas. The suggestion is to set R to 600N and plug in all the given values to determine the solution.
  • #1
CivilSigma
227
58
So I have a mechanics question 2.65 of which I have deduced the following :
[TEX]x-Component of all forces[/TEX]
[TEX]F1 = 150 cos30 [/TEX]
[TEX]F2= 150 cos \alpha[/TEX]
[TEX]F3 = 150 cos(\alpha+50)[/TEX]

[TEX]y-Components of all forces[/TEX]
[TEX]F1 = -150 sin30[/TEX]
[TEX]F2 = 150 sin \alpha[/TEX]
[TEX]F3 = 150 cos(50-\alpha)[/TEX]

Finally, [Tex]R = \sqrt{(\Sigma Fx)^2 + (\Sigma Fy)^2} [/tex]

Now we know the resultant is at max 600 N, how do we go about solving [TEX]\alpha[/TEX] ? I tried applying various trig formulas like angle addition and subtraction, but I couldn't isolate [TEX]\alpha[/TEX]. How would you go about solving for alpha?
 

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  • #2
Set R to 600N, then plug everything in and see what you get (and please write it down here, so we can see where exactly you get stuck).
 

1. What is alpha in mechanics and why is it important?

Alpha, also known as angular acceleration, is a measure of how quickly an object's angular velocity changes. In mechanics, it is important because it helps us understand the motion of objects that rotate or move in a circular path.

2. How do trigonometric formulas play a role in solving for alpha?

Trigonometric formulas, such as sine, cosine, and tangent, are used to calculate the magnitude and direction of forces acting on an object. These forces can then be used in equations to solve for alpha.

3. What are force components and how do they relate to solving for alpha?

Force components refer to the individual forces acting on an object in different directions. These forces can be broken down into horizontal and vertical components, which can then be used to calculate the net force and ultimately solve for alpha.

4. Can solving for alpha in mechanics be applied to real-world situations?

Yes, solving for alpha in mechanics is commonly used in various real-world situations, such as analyzing the motion of objects in sports, designing machinery, and understanding the rotation of celestial bodies.

5. What are some common challenges in solving for alpha in mechanics?

Some common challenges in solving for alpha include dealing with non-uniform acceleration, incorporating friction or air resistance into calculations, and understanding the relationship between linear and angular motion. It is important to carefully consider all forces acting on an object to accurately solve for alpha.

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