Tension in Cable: Solving Using Trig

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the tension in a cable supporting a 36.0 kg uniform beam at an angle of θ = 69.0°. The user attempted to apply basic trigonometry but encountered difficulties due to the cable's attachment point not being at the beam's center of mass. The correct approach involves using torque calculations about the hinge to determine the tension accurately.

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Homework Statement



A 36.0 kg uniform beam is attached to a wall with a hinge while its far end is supported by a cable such that the beam is horizontal.

http://a1.educog.com/res/msu/physicslib/msuphysicslib/24_Statics_Equilibrium/graphics/prob20_beamhinge2.gif

If the angle between the beam and the cable is θ = 69.0° what is the tension in the cable?

Homework Equations


Unknown other than basic trigonometry

The Attempt at a Solution


I tried using simple trigonometry; Cos(69)=(36*g)/h, but to no avail. I believe the reason it didn't work to be because the cable is not attached to the bar's center of mass, but I've no idea how to correct this. A point in the right direction would be greatly appreciated!
 
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Use torque about hinge.
 

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