Tension problem calculate theta

  • Thread starter Thread starter Ciaran
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Tension Theta
Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a cylinder positioned between cross pieces at an angle θ, requiring the calculation of tension in a horizontal rope. The context includes concepts from mechanics and equilibrium analysis.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to calculate θ using trigonometric relationships and considers the forces acting on the cylinder. Some participants question the ability to determine θ with the provided information and suggest that tension is dependent on θ.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring the relationship between the forces and the angle θ. There is a suggestion for further clarification through visual aids, and the need for more information is acknowledged.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the assumption of a smooth floor and the equilibrium conditions that must be satisfied. There is an indication that the original poster's approach may not fully account for the dependencies involved in the problem.

Ciaran
Messages
71
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



A cylinder of radius R and mass m is lodged between cross pieces that make an angle θ with each other. The cross pieces of negligible mass are connected in point C, with lengths AC = BC = 2R and CD = CE = 3R. Determine the tension in the horizontal rope DE. You may assume smooth floor.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


My starting point was to calculate theta, which would be twice the inverse tangent of 1/3. I also know that the weight of the mass m will partner a reaction force that is spread evenly between the two points of contact with the ground. However I'm not too sure where to go from here and any help would be much appreciated!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
A picture would be really helpful.
 
[PLAIN]http://Screen [/PLAIN] shot [/PLAIN] [PLAIN]http://Screen [/PLAIN] Shot 2015-03-08 at 19.06.54[/PLAIN]
Here it is- I thought I'd attached it, sorry!
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Screen Shot 2015-03-08 at 19.06.54.png
 
Equilibrium problems always come down to summing forces and torques and setting the sums equal to zero. Consider the equilibrium of the cylinder and of one of the cross pieces.

How did you calculate ##\theta##? I don't think it can be determined from the information given, and the tension you find will be a function of ##\theta##.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
2K
  • · Replies 25 ·
Replies
25
Views
3K
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
Replies
11
Views
3K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
10K
Replies
5
Views
8K
Replies
13
Views
2K