The truck is to be towed using two ropes 3

The truck is to be towed using two ropes. Determine the magnitudes of forces F_A and F_B acting on each rope in order to develop a resultant force of 950 N directed along the positive x axis. Set \theta=50^0.

Solution:

Let us first draw the vector components as follows.

Note the resultant force is directed along the x axis as stated in the question.

Now, let us draw the vectors tail to tail as follows.

Now, we can use the law of sines to figure out F_A and F_B. (Forgot the law of sines?)

\frac{F_A}{\sin50^0}=\frac{950}{\sin110^0}

F_A=774N

\frac{F_B}{\sin20^0}=\frac{950}{\sin110^0}

F_B=346N

This question can be found in Engineering Mechanics: Statics (SI edition), 13th edition, chapter 2, question 2-11.