Mission F2D4 Static Equilibrium Analysis
Mission F2D4 focuses on the use of vector components to mathematically analyze situations in which objects hang at equilibrium from two or more wires, cables, or strings. The mission consists of 40 questions organized into 10 Question Groups. You must answer one question from each Question Group to complete the mission. The learning outcomes for this mission are ...
Learning Outcomes
- The student should be able to physically analyze situations in which a weight is supported by two or more cables which extend at angles to the horizontal.
- The student should be able to perform calculations to mathematically relate the tension in a sign-supporting cable to the angle with the horizontal and the mass of the sign.
Getting Help
If you are not familiar with this topic, then you should first learn about the topic using our written Tutorial or our Video Tutorial:
The Physics Classroom, Vectors and Motion in Two Dimensions Unit, Lesson 3, Part b
The Physics Classroom, Vectors and Motion in Two Dimensions Unit, Lesson 3, Part c
- What is meant by equilibrium?
- What is true about the forces if an object is at equilibrium?
- How can one apply equilibrium concepts to analyze a situation in which a sign is supported by cables?
- When a sign is supported by cables, what can be said about the vertical and the horizontal components of tension?
- When a sign is supported by two cables, how does the weight of the sign compare to the vertical components of tension?
- When a sign is supported by two cables, how does an alteration in the angle of the cables effect the tension in the cables?
- How can one mathematically analyze a situation in which a sign is supported by cables?