Uniform rectangular plate equilibrium problem

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around finding the angle θ that minimizes the tension in a cable supporting a uniform rectangular plate. The angle is derived using the relationship tan θ = d/h, leading to θ = arctan(d/h). The tension T is expressed as T = (Wd/2) / (d cos θ + h sin θ), but there is confusion regarding the given solution T = (Wd/2)√(h² + d²). Participants emphasize the need to determine the angle that results in the least tension and clarify the connection between the two tension formulas. Understanding this relationship is crucial for solving the problem accurately.
kudoushinichi88
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Homework Statement


A uniform rectangular plate of width d, height h, and weight W is supported with its top and bottom edges horizontal. At the lower left corner there is a inge, and the upper right corner there is a cable. For what angle \theta with the vertical will the tension in the cable be the least, and what is the tension?

Homework Equations


\tau=Fd

The Attempt at a Solution


for the angle, it's easy,
tan \theta = d/h
\theta=\arctan{d/h}

but I'm having trouble with the tension of the cable. I managed to derive
\frac{Wd}{2}=Td\cos{\theta}+Th\sin{\theta}

which gives T as

T=\frac{Wd}{2\left(d\cos{\theta}+h\sin{\theta})}

the answer given is

T=(Wd/2)\sqrt{h^2+d^2}

I seem to fail to see the connection
\sqrt{h^2+d^2}=\frac{1}{d\cos{\theta}+h\sin{\theta}}

can anyone show me why is this so?
 
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kudoushinichi88 said:

Homework Statement


A uniform rectangular plate of width d, height h, and weight W is supported with its top and bottom edges horizontal. At the lower left corner there is a inge, and the upper right corner there is a cable. For what angle \theta with the vertical will the tension in the cable be the least, and what is the tension?

You did only part of the problem. You found the tension at some angle θ. Now you need to find at what angle the tension has the least value, then find what the tension is.
 
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