Lennie
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Homework Statement
Two masses m and M (where M = 2m) are attached with strings. One mass m is suspended from a single vertical string held by two strings each at 45 degrees to the horizontal. The suspending string to the left at 45 degrees is attached to a fixed point. The string on the right at 45 degrees is attached to another mass M which in turn is attached by a further to a fixed point above at an angle theta to the horizontal.
If the system is in equilibrium, determine the tension in the three strings in terms of m and g, and calculate the angle theta.[/B]
Homework Equations
F = ma
The Attempt at a Solution
As the system is in equilibrium i can say a=0 and therefore ΣF = 0.
The y component of the two tensions in the two diagonal strings supporting mass m should be equal to mg when summed. Assuming the tensions are still equal (not quite sure what effect the other mass M would have on this - mass M is what has thrown me) then the tension in the bottom two strings should be mg/√2 ?
The tension in the 3rd string connecting mass M with the fixed point ? My best quest was to say it is equal to √2mg as 2mg sin45 = T ?
I also don't know theta however and don't see a way of finding it, at this point I am almost sure i have absolutely none of this right! Any help on a method to solve this would be much appreciated!
P.s sorry for the lack of image, can't seem to find anything on the web which shows a similar situation.