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A 2.0kg mass is suspended by two strings. Solve for the tension of both strings.

A 2.0kg mass is suspended by two strings. Solve for the tension of both strings.-example-1

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Hello!

In this diagram, we know that there are 3 forces acting on the block:

W = weight of block ⇒ 2(9.8) = 19.6 N

T1 = HORIZONTAL force

T2

The vertical component of T2 is the only other force keeping the system in equilibrium, so:

∑Fy = 0 = T2y - W

W = T2y

19.6 = T2y

Divide by sine:

19.6/sin(30) = 39.2 N = T2

In the horizontal direction, the body is also at equilibrium involving the HORIZONTAL component of T2 and T1, so:

∑Fx = 0 = T2cos(30) - T1

T1 = T2cos(30)

Use the previously solved-for value for T2:

T1 = (39.2N)(cos(30)) = 33.95 N

User Frederike
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