weight held by a string at an angle.

[Final_HB]

Original question:

 

A load of weight W is supported in equilibrium by two strings attached to it. One is inclined at an angle 30 to the vertical, and the other is inclined at an angle 60 to the vertical. If either rope breaks if the tension exceeds a value of T_o, Find the greatest value of W that can be supported.

 

What I have so far:

 

Well, its at equilibruim. So all the forces equal 0.

Since we are looking for the greatest value, we set the tension in both strings as T_o as specified.

Its at angles, so we need to get the horizontal and vertical components of each string. Which look like:

T_o Cos30 + T_o Sin30 and T_o Cos60 +T_o Sin60

 

Am I good so far? Main problem is working out the tension... So hints on where to go from there would be greatly appreciated

[studiot]

Good morning Final_HB.

 

I'm glad you reviewed yesterday's problem, shows the value of reviewing.

 

Yes you are on the right track, but W only appears in the vertical expression.

 

You formally obtain the condition you should write this as an inequality W <= vertical opposing forces

 

If you rearrange the expression you will come to the solution.

[Final_HB]

Hello again

Sounds, and looks good to me

 

This place is great so helpful, and quick to respond as well!!

thank you again.

[imatfaal]

Good old fashioned mechanics problems are just fun!

[Final_HB]

Im glad you enjoy them

 

I might have to spam a few more here