What is the Maximum Force P Applied at C Given Cable Tension Limits?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on determining the maximum force P that can be applied at point C, given that the tension in each cable is limited to 800N. Participants mention using a free body diagram (FBD) and the sine law to analyze the forces, but some express difficulty due to multiple unknown angles and sides. Suggestions include resolving forces into vertical and horizontal components to simplify calculations. The need for clarity in the force triangle is emphasized to facilitate solving the problem. Overall, the thread seeks guidance on applying trigonometric principles to find the solution.
Dfresh
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Homework Statement


Two cables are tied together at C as shown below. Knowing that the maximum tension in each cable is 800N, determine:
a) the force in P that can be applied on C
b) The corresponding value of a
Link to diagram
http://www.chegg.com/homework-help/two-cables-tied-together-c-loaded-shown-knowing-maximum-allo-chapter-2-problem-61p-solution-9780077414214-exc

Homework Equations


sine law

The Attempt at a Solution


So basically I drew a FBD, and realized that you can have a max of 800N in each rope. However, what I'm stuck on is trying to rearrange the diagram so I can solve it using the sine law. It seems I'm always having two unknown angles and one unknown side.I need some help with trying to decipher the force triangle.
 
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Who says you have to use the sine law?

Chet
 
Dfresh said:
what I'm stuck on is trying to rearrange the diagram so I can solve it using the sine law. It seems I'm always having two unknown angles and one unknown side.I need some help with trying to decipher the force triangle.
You could first resolve all forces into their vertical and horizontal components ...
 
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