Solving a Homework Statement: Finding Forces and Distances

[StrawHat]

Homework Statement

**Hope I don't get in trouble for posting a screenshot of this online homework question...**

Homework Equations

[itex]\Sigma[/itex]F_x = ma_rad = [itex]\frac{mv^2}{r}[/itex]
[itex]\Sigma[/itex]F_y = mg

The Attempt at a Solution

Simple equations allowed me to find r = 1.323m and θ = 41.41°
[itex]\Sigma[/itex]F_x = T_uppersinθ + T_lowersinθ + mgsinθ = [itex]\frac{mv^2}{r}[/itex]
T_uppersinθ + T_lowersinθ + 28.85N = 169.57N
T_upper + T_lower = 212.75N

[itex]\Sigma[/itex]F_y = T_uppercosθ - T_lowercosθ - mg = 0
T_uppercosθ - T_lowercosθ = mg
T_upper - T_lower = 58.15N
T_upper = 58.15N + T_lower

Substituting T_upper,
58.15N + T_lower + T_lower = 212.75N
58.15N + 2(T_lower) = 212.75N
T_lower = 77.3N
T_upper = 58.15N + 77.3N = 135.45N

 

[Doc Al]

Simple equations allowed me to find r = 1.323m and θ = 41.41°

Good.

[itex]\Sigma[/itex]F_x = T_uppersinθ + T_lowersinθ + mgsinθ = [itex]\frac{mv^2}{r}[/itex]

In what direction does the weight act?

 

[StrawHat]

In what direction does the weight act?

Away from the pole, so I guess mgsinθ is negative as well?

EDIT: Ah, nope. F_x is only mv^2/r, so I don't need to take into account the gravitational force. Got the answers, thanks for your help!