Unit Vector Question. *updated*

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the magnitudes of forces exerted at point B by cables AB and BC, given a total force of 180i - 820j (N). The user has drawn a diagram and calculated initial forces as Fab = (4i, 11.8j) and Fbc = (5i, -12j). However, they are confused because their total force in the i direction sums to 9i, which does not match the required 180i. There is a request for clarification on the drawing of vectors and how the forces from the cables interact with point B. The conversation emphasizes the need to correctly represent the forces acting on B to solve the problem accurately.
imapeiceofwod
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OK here's the problem. I am completely unsure how to solve it my teacher never even did an example like this before.

The total force exerted on the top of the mast B by the sailboat's forestay AB and backstay BC is 180i- 820j (N). What are the magnitudes of the forces exerted at B by the cables AB and BC?

A(0,1.2)
B(4,13)
C(9,1)

Any help please and thank you

here's what i got so far. I drew i diagram of the situation drawing and drew the vectors. I figured out Fab=(4i,11.8j) and Fbc=(5i,-12j)

Then i found the total force in the i direction which is 9i and the total force in the j which is 0.2j .

I know that the total force in the i direction is suppose to be 180i but i got 9i for the total force. Any help?
 
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Since you have to achieve 180i- 820j (N) it seems rather odd your vectors are (4i,11.8j) +(5i,-12j).

Would you mind showing us the drawing with the vectors and the backstay/forestay ?
 
heres the picture
 

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Ok, but I don't see the force vector acting on B.

AB and BC are basically ropes, so they're pulling or pushing B ? (I ask this looking at how you drew the arrows)
 
im sry, i drew the vector CB its suppose to be BC
 
don't mind, but draw the vector of the total force on B ...
 
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