Tension of 2 cables supporting one object

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the tension in two ropes supporting a 1,000 kg steel beam, with Rope 1 at -20 degrees and Rope 2 at 30 degrees from the vertical. Participants correctly identify that the x-components of the tensions must sum to zero and the y-components must equal the weight of the beam, which is 9,800 N (1,000 kg multiplied by 9.8 m/s²). The equations derived include T1*sin(20) = T2*cos(30) and T2*cos(30) + T1*cos(20) = 9,800 N. A critical correction noted is the necessity to multiply by the acceleration due to gravity (g) when calculating the weight.

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Homework Statement



A 1,000kg steel beam is supported by 2 ropes. What is the tension in each?

Rope 1 on the left is -20 degrees from vertical and rope 2 on the right is 30 degrees from vertical, making a V shape, the tops being connected to a ceiling.

Homework Equations



Not sure other than converting kg's to Newtons at some point and probably using trig.

The Attempt at a Solution



My friends and I think that the x components of both triangles formed have to add up to 0 and the y components of the 2 triangles need to add up to 1,000 kg.

rope 1=r1
rope 2=r2

(r2)sin30+(r1)sin20=0

(r2)cos30+(r1)cos20=1000kg

we tried solving for r1 in the first equation then substituting that into r1's spot in the second equation but that didn't work. any tips would be appreciated.. we've been trying to figure this out for the past hour
 
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your method is right... and the way to solve is right too
T1*sin20=T2*cos30

(T2)cos30+(T1)cos20=1000*9.8 (here's your mistake you didnt multiply by g)
 
awesome, thank you
 

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