Tension Problem x and y components?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a tension problem involving a man of mass 70.0 kg suspended by two cables A and B, each at a 60.0-degree angle to the horizontal, while a horizontal force of 250 N is applied. The weight of the man is calculated as 686 N, leading to two equations based on the x and y components of forces. The equations derived are Acos120 + Bcos60 + 250 = 0 for the x-component and Asin120 + Bsin60 + 686 = 0 for the y-component. The solution requires substituting one variable in terms of the other to find the tensions in the cables.

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  • Ability to solve systems of equations
  • Familiarity with static equilibrium concepts
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This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding tension forces in static systems, particularly in the context of cable mechanics and equilibrium analysis.

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Tension Problem x and y components??

Homework Statement



A man of mass 70.0 kg hangs by 2 cables A and B each inclined at 60.0 degrees to the horizontal.

A horizontal pulling force F is applied to the man pulling to the right. The man remains stationary. If F has magnitude 250 N, find the magnitudes of the tension in the 2 cables.


Homework Equations



F=w=mg
A+B+F+W=0



The Attempt at a Solution



(70 kg)(9.8)=686 N
the downward W force is 686 N

x-component
Ax+Bx+F=0
Acos120+Bcos60+250=0

y-component
Ay+By+W=0
Asin120+Bsin60+686=0

I know there is a system of equations here and that i can use substitution or trigonometric triangles but I am not sure how to approach either of these methods. Any help would be great. Sorry i don't have a picture, i hope it makes sense.
 
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Acos120+Bcos60+250=0
Asin120+Bsin60+686=0

Evaluate the cos and sin terms, and one has two equations and two unknowns, which one should be able to solve.
 
hmm sorry it still doesn't make sense to me I am not sure how to put B in terms of A or A in terms of B and then after i find these numbers how to go about finding the tensions of the cables.
 
First of all the weight is negative (sin270, right?)

Now turn all those sins and cos's into decimals, and rewrite the first equation so that it reads " A = blablablah + B(blah)"

then substitute that for the "A" in the second equation.
 

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