Statics problem - too many unknowns?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a statics problem involving two sticks with masses m and 2m, where the tension in the string must be determined. The user has established three equilibrium equations based on the forces acting on the right stick, including By, Bx, T, Cy, and the weight of the right stick (2mg). Despite formulating these equations, the user struggles with the intuition required for statics and recognizes the challenge of having six unknowns with only six equations when including the left stick.

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Homework Statement



See attachment. Find the tension in the string that is keeping this weird contraption together. The left stick has mass m, the right stick has mass 2m. m, θ and L are known quantities.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



Tried starting with the right stick since there's less unknowns there. There's five forces acting upon it I think. By, Bx, T, Cy and 2mg.

I got these equilibrium equations:

By + Cy - 2mg = 0
T + Bx = 0
Cy*0.5cosθ - By*0.5cosθ - Bx*0.5sinθ = 0

Not sure where to go from here. Having a REALLY tough time getting an intuition for statics.
 

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You could add the left stick.
This will give 3 equations again, but just 2 additional unknown parameters. In total, you get 6 unknown parameters and 6 equations.
 

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