Vector Decomposition and Trig in Tension Force Analysis

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the concepts of vector decomposition and trigonometric relationships in the context of analyzing tension forces. Participants are exploring the definitions and orientations of sine and cosine in relation to angles in a right triangle.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are questioning the orientation of sine and cosine in relation to the angle theta, particularly in the context of a right triangle. There are inquiries about the understanding of trigonometric functions and their application to vector decomposition.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants seeking clarification on trigonometric principles and their application to the problem at hand. Some have offered to illustrate the problem using diagrams, while others are probing for deeper understanding of the underlying concepts.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of a solved problem being referenced, but the specifics of the problem are not detailed in the discussion. Participants are encouraged to provide all relevant information regarding the triangle's orientation and the definitions of the sides in relation to the axes.

Scorry
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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.
 

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Scorry said:

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.
 
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.
 
Are you familiar with SOH CAH TOA?
Can you draw a labelled right angled triangle with FT as the hypotenuse?
 
billy_joule said:
Are you familiar with SOH CAH TOA?
Can you draw a labelled right angled triangle with FT 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?
 
Scorry said:
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 FT,X FT, Y. Using SOH CAH TOA, what are the lengths of the opposite and adjacent sides?
 

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