Vector problem missing magnitude of two vectors

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on solving for the magnitudes of forces B and C in a vector problem involving three forces: A (200 lb at 35 degrees N of W), B (40 degrees E of N), and C (30 degrees W of S), with a resultant force of 260 lb at 85 degrees S of W. The user attempted to set up equations based on vector components but struggled to isolate B and C. The consensus is that the user is on the right track and should solve the two simultaneous equations derived from the vector components to find the magnitudes of forces B and C.

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Hackerjack
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Homework Statement


Force A has a magnitude of 200 lb and points 35deg N of W. Force B points 40deg E of N. Force C points 30deg W of S. The resultant of the three forces has a magnitude of 260 lb and points 85deg S of W. Find the magnitude of forces B and C.

Homework Equations


A+B+C=R(resultant)
Ax+Bx+Cx=Rx
Ay+By+Cy=Ry

The Attempt at a Solution


So this is what I tried:
Ax+Bx+Cx=Rx
-200cos35 + Bsin40 - Csin30 = -260cos85
-163.8304 + Bsin40 - Csin30 = -22.6605
Bsin40 - Csin30 = 141.1699

Ay+By+Cy=Ry
200sin35 + Bcos40 - Ccos30 = -260sin85
114.7153 + Bcos40 - Ccos30 = -259.0108
Bcos40 - Ccos30 = -373.7261

This is what I tried but I still can't find the magnitude of B and C. Should I use system of equations to find B and C? Am I even on the right track?
 
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Hackerjack said:

Homework Statement


Force A has a magnitude of 200 lb and points 35deg N of W. Force B points 40deg E of N. Force C points 30deg W of S. The resultant of the three forces has a magnitude of 260 lb and points 85deg S of W. Find the magnitude of forces B and C.

Homework Equations


A+B+C=R(resultant)
Ax+Bx+Cx=Rx
Ay+By+Cy=Ry

The Attempt at a Solution


So this is what I tried:
Ax+Bx+Cx=Rx
-200cos35 + Bsin40 - Csin30 = -260cos85
-163.8304 + Bsin40 - Csin30 = -22.6605
Bsin40 - Csin30 = 141.1699

Ay+By+Cy=Ry
200sin35 + Bcos40 - Ccos30 = -260sin85
114.7153 + Bcos40 - Ccos30 = -259.0108
Bcos40 - Ccos30 = -373.7261

This is what I tried but I still can't find the magnitude of B and C. Should I use system of equations to find B and C? Am I even on the right track?
Yes, although I didn't verify that your equations are correct.
I copied these equations from your work above. There are two equations in two unknowns, so solving these equations simultaneously should give you values for B and C.
-200cos35 + Bsin40 - Csin30 = -260cos85
200sin35 + Bcos40 - Ccos30 = -260sin85
 

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