Tension problem involving picture frame

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a tension problem involving a picture frame suspended by two wires, where the tension in each wire is 0.75 times the weight of the frame. Participants emphasize the importance of breaking down the tension into vertical and horizontal components, specifically using the equations T*cos(θ) for the vertical component and T*sin(θ) for the horizontal component. The net vertical component must equal the weight of the frame, allowing for the calculation of the angle θ. The solution involves equating the net vertical component to the weight and solving for θ.

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  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, specifically tension and forces.
  • Familiarity with trigonometric functions, particularly sine and cosine.
  • Ability to create and interpret free body diagrams.
  • Knowledge of equilibrium conditions in physics.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of static equilibrium in physics.
  • Learn how to resolve forces into components using trigonometric identities.
  • Explore applications of tension in real-world scenarios, such as bridges and cranes.
  • Practice solving similar tension problems involving angles and forces.
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This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the mechanics of tension in static systems.

Chandasouk
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Homework Statement



A picture frame hung against a wall is suspended by two wires attached to its upper corners.

If the two wires make the same angle with the vertical, what must this angle be if the tension in each wire is equal to 0.75 of the weight of the frame? (Neglect any friction between the wall and the picture frame.)

I have no idea what to do except for to draw a free body diagram.
 
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Find the vertical and horizontal components of both the tensions.
Horizontal components cancel each other. Net horizontal components = ...?
 
the X components would be cos\theta*.75 ?You mean the vertical components cancel each other out right?
 
Chandasouk said:
the X components would be cos\theta*.75 ?


You mean the vertical components cancel each other out right?
Sorry. I mean net vertical component.
If θ is the angle of T with vertical, then check the x component.
What is y component?
 
Sin\theta*.75 ?

If I broke the tension into components, I get a triangle with theta above the horizontal
 
In the problem it is stated that "If the two wires make the same angle with the vertical'
If you call this angle as θ, then
vertical component is T*cosθ and horizontal component is T*sinθ.
Horizontal components are equal in magnitude and opposite in direction. Hence they cancel each other.
The net vertical component is the weight of the frame.
 
okay, I understand that now, but how do I find the angle? The tension on both wires are .75 of the weight, so could I substitute

vertical component is .75w*cosθ
 
Last edited:
Two vertical components are there. Find net vertical component and equate it to the weight of the frame w. And solve for θ.
 

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