Solving Vectors Problem: 4 People Pulling on Rope at Square Corners

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the net force exerted on a central point by four individuals pulling on a rope from the corners of a square. Fred, Ted, Ed, and Ned exert forces of 11N, 11N, 17N, and 15N respectively. The initial calculations for the force components (Fx and Fy) incorrectly assume angles of 60 degrees; the correct angles should be derived from the geometry of the square. The net force is calculated using the formula fnet = (Fx^2 + Fy^2)^0.5, which requires accurate angle measurements for precise results.

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Homework Statement


4 people stand at the corners of a square. Fred stands at point (0,0)
Ted at (1,0) Ed at (1,1) and ned at (0,1). they each pull on a rope connected to the center of the square
(0.5,0.5). Fred exerts 11N, Ted exerts 11N, Ed 17N and Ned 15N. what is the net force exerted on the center point and what is the angle from the positive x-axis


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


Fx = 17cos60+11cos60-11cos60-15cos60
Fy = 17sin60-11sin60-11sin60+15sin60
fnet = (fx^2+fy^2)^.5
i am not getting the right anwser where am i going wrong
 
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Hi myoplex11,

myoplex11 said:

Homework Statement


4 people stand at the corners of a square. Fred stands at point (0,0)
Ted at (1,0) Ed at (1,1) and ned at (0,1). they each pull on a rope connected to the center of the square
(0.5,0.5). Fred exerts 11N, Ted exerts 11N, Ed 17N and Ned 15N. what is the net force exerted on the center point and what is the angle from the positive x-axis


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


Fx = 17cos60+11cos60-11cos60-15cos60
Fy = 17sin60-11sin60-11sin60+15sin60
fnet = (fx^2+fy^2)^.5
i am not getting the right anwser where am i going wrong

I don't believe the angles involved here are 60 degrees. What would they be?