Statics Homework Problem: Solving Forces Using Sin Law

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a statics homework problem involving the Law of Sines to resolve forces into components. The user attempted to apply the sine law but incorrectly calculated the components, resulting in F1u = -219 and F1v = 254.5, which are invalid as one component exceeds the original force magnitude of 250. The correct approach requires forming a right triangle where the hypotenuse represents the vector being resolved.

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  • Understanding of vector resolution in physics
  • Familiarity with the Law of Sines
  • Knowledge of trigonometric functions and their applications
  • Basic principles of statics and force diagrams
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Students studying physics, particularly those tackling statics problems, as well as educators looking for examples of common errors in vector resolution.

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Homework Statement


http://img843.imageshack.us/img843/5370/helpxd.jpg

Homework Equations



Sin law

The Attempt at a Solution



I got to:

F1/sin(105) = F1u/sin(45) = F1v/sin(30)


I get F1u = - 219 and F1v = 254.5... It says it is wrong, not sure what I did.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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For starters, take a look at your answer. You are providing it to 6 significant figures.

Secondly, you are resolving a force of magnitude 250 into components. But you compute one of the components to be larger than the force. How can that be?
 


Hint: When you resolve a vector into components you form a right triangle with the hypotenuse being the vector to be resolved.
 

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