A 10.0-kg picture is held in place by two wires, one hanging at 50.0° to the left of the vertical and the other at 45.0° to the right of the vertical. What is the tension in the first wire?
A) 69.6 N
B) 50.8 N
C) 98.1 N
D) 69.4 N
E) 23.8 N

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The tension in the first wire can be found by resolving the forces vertically and horizontally. The vertical component of the tension must balance the weight of the picture (98.1 N). Using trigonometry, T1 * cos(50°) + T2 * cos(45°) = 98.1 N. Solving for T1 gives approximately 69.6 N.

A 100-Kg Picture Is Held in Place by Two Wires, One