Tension with two strings and angles

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a problem involving tension in two strings at angles, focusing on the equilibrium of forces in both the x and y directions. Participants are examining the setup of equations based on the forces acting on the system.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the setup of equations for net forces in the x and y directions, questioning the correctness of the y-equation. There is mention of needing to take moments to derive a third equation due to having more unknowns than equations.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different approaches to solve the system of equations. Some guidance has been offered regarding the need for additional equations to solve for the unknowns, but no consensus has been reached on a specific method or solution.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the challenge of having two equations with three unknowns, which raises questions about the assumptions made in the problem setup.

Ckrueger11
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Can someone help me with this problem? I am stuck.

So far I have:net Force (x) = T1cos30 - T2cos(θ) = 0

net Force (y) = T1sin30 + T2sin(θ) - 120N - 400N = 0 From equation 1 ---> cosθ = (T1cos30)/T2I attached a picture of the problem.

Not sure my y-equation is correct

How do I find T1 & T2
 

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Split the two tensions into x and y components and then apply the laws for equilibrium:

∑Fx=0
∑Fy=0
∑M=0
 
I set the equations up and set them equal to zero but I don't know how to solve them for any of my unknowns.
 
Ckrueger11 said:
I set the equations up and set them equal to zero but I don't know how to solve them for any of my unknowns.

You have 2 equations with 3 unknowns, you need to take moments about a point to get a third equation.
 

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