Vector Decomposition and Trig in Tension Force Analysis

[Scorry]

Homework Statement

This is a solved problem. It is attached. Why is sin theta horizontal, and cosine theta vertical?

Homework Equations

All relevant equations are given.

The Attempt at a Solution

The solution is given.

 

[billy_joule]

Homework Statement

This is a solved problem. It is attached. Why is sin theta horizontal, and cosine theta vertical?

You'll have to be more specific.
The short answer is: Because trigonometry says so.

 

[Scorry]

Its been a while since I have seen trig. Can you explain how I should look at it? It says theta is relative to the vetical.

 

[billy_joule]

Are you familiar with SOH CAH TOA?
Can you draw a labelled right angled triangle with F_T as the hypotenuse?

 

[Scorry]

Are you familiar with SOH CAH TOA?
Can you draw a labelled right angled triangle with F_T as the hypotenuse?

Yes remember those 3 trig functions. I can draw a right triangle with the hypotenuse labeled Tension force. Where are you going with this?

 

[billy_joule]

Yes remember those 3 trig functions. I can draw a right triangle with the hypotenuse labeled Tension force. Where are you going with this?

I'm trying to ascertain what exactly you are having trouble with. Do you understand vector decomposition? Do you understand why you need to do it in this case? Can you use trig to find lengths of a right triangle sides?

'draw a labelled right angled triangle' = include all information you have. Orientation relative to x & y axis, theta, Label the other sides descriptively ie F_T,X F_{T, Y}. Using SOH CAH TOA, what are the lengths of the opposite and adjacent sides?