What Is the Tension in a Cable at an Angle?

AI Thread Summary
To determine the tension in the cable at a 25-degree angle, apply Newton's second law to the 1400 kg car, which accelerates at 0.55 m/s². The tension can be calculated by resolving the forces acting on the car in the horizontal direction. Neglecting friction and the mass of the cable simplifies the calculations. The acceleration of the car is equal to that of the truck, which is a key point in solving the problem. Understanding these principles will lead to the correct formula for tension.
da5id2
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I'm having trouble finding what formula to use for this:

A tow truck is connected to a 1400 kg car by a cable that makes a 25 degree angle to the horizontal.

If the truck accelerates at 0.55 m/s^2, what is the magnitude of the cable tension? Neglect friction and the mass of the cable.
 
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Welcome to PF!

da5id2 said:
A tow truck is connected to a 1400 kg car by a cable that makes a 25 degree angle to the horizontal.

If the truck accelerates at 0.55 m/s^2, what is the magnitude of the cable tension? Neglect friction and the mass of the cable.

Hi da5id2! Welcome to PF! :smile:

The car obviously has the same acceleration as the truck, 0.55 m/s^2.

So use good ol' Newton's second law for the external forces on the car in the horizontal direction. :wink:
 

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