Uniform rectangular plate equilibrium problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on determining the angle θ at which the tension in a cable supporting a uniform rectangular plate is minimized. The plate has a width d, height h, and weight W. The relationship derived for tension T is T = (Wd/2) / (d cos(θ) + h sin(θ)). The correct expression for minimum tension is T = (Wd/2)√(h² + d²), indicating a need to connect the geometric relationship of the plate's dimensions with the tension formula.

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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 [itex]\theta[/itex] with the vertical will the tension in the cable be the least, and what is the tension?

Homework Equations


[itex]\tau=Fd[/itex]

The Attempt at a Solution


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

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

which gives T as

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

the answer given is

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

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

can anyone show me why is this so?
 
Last edited:
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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 [itex]\theta[/itex] 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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