Calculate Tension of Two Wires: Physics/Precalc

In summary, the conversation revolves around finding the tensions of two wires using vector analysis and the Pythagorean theorem. The picture given shows a 1200 lbs weight held at a level position, with angles A and B at 35 and 30 degrees respectively. The sides a and b represent the tensions on the two wires. The person has tried various equations but has been unsuccessful in finding a solution. They are also unsure if the Pythagorean theorem is applicable in this scenario.
  • #1
Planetx
6
0
I am tasked to find the tensions of two wires by calculating the "magnitude of the vector" in a high school physics/precalc class. I have tried working out the equation in several ways but they all end up in an unsolvable format. So, in reference to the picture, A = 35 degrees, B= 30 degrees and sides a and b symbolize the magnitude or tension on two vectors when holding a 1200 lbs weight from a level position. I am given no other information.
1461943737818.jpg
 
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  • #2
I have found that x = (-ycos35/cos150) no? And I tried substituting it into a few equations I worked out. I feel I am in the WAY wrong direction here and common sense is failing me.
 
  • #3
Planetx said:
I have found that x = (-ycos35/cos180) no? And I tried substituting it into a few equations I worked out. I feel I am in the WAY wrong direction here and common sense is failing me.
I realize this is a simple problem but my application of angle theorem and vector analysis is limited so far.
 
  • #4
Some people told me pythagorean theorem is that simple but i figured tension would be different from magnitude
 

1. How do you calculate the tension of two wires?

The tension of two wires can be calculated using the formula T1 = T2 = (mg + ma)/2, where T1 and T2 are the tensions of the two wires, m is the mass of the object, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and a is the acceleration of the object.

2. What is the significance of calculating the tension of two wires?

Calculating the tension of two wires is important in various fields, such as engineering, physics, and construction. It allows us to determine the stability and strength of structures that use wires, such as bridges and suspension systems.

3. How does the angle between the two wires affect the tension?

The angle between the two wires can affect the tension by changing the direction of the force applied to the wires. As the angle increases, the tension in each wire decreases, and when the angle is 180 degrees, the tension becomes zero.

4. Can the tension of two wires ever be greater than the weight of the object?

No, the tension in the wires can never be greater than the weight of the object. This is because the wires can only support the weight of the object, and applying a greater force would result in the wires breaking or the object moving.

5. How do different materials and thicknesses of wires impact the tension calculation?

The tension calculation is affected by the properties of the wires, such as their material and thickness. Different materials have different strengths and can withstand different amounts of tension. Thicker wires also have a higher maximum tension than thinner wires.

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