# 3 weights suspended on 2 pulleys to form a M shape

## Homework Statement

A block with a mass of 25 kg is hung midway between two pulleys, with a rope connecting a hook at the top of the block to each of the two pulleys. On the other side of the pulleys, both ropes are connected to blocks with masses of 15 kg. The 25 kg mass in the middle sags downward until the 3 blocks and 2 pulleys form the shape of an “M”. If the pulleys are 45 cm apart, how far below the level of the pulleys does the top of the 25 kg mass need to be in order for the system to be in equilibrium?

2. Homework Equations

Sum of Forces =0

3. The Attempt at a Solution
I have calculated the tensions in one rope to be 147N using 15kg*9.8m/sec^2 and the Fg of the middle block is 245N I know I need to find the angles of the rope to the ceiling by splitting the tension of the rope in x and y directions, but I can not figure out how to get those values.

## Answers and Replies

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PhanthomJay
Homework Helper
Gold Member
You know the tension in the rope, and you know the weight of the block in the middle. At the joint where they all meet, identify the forces acting in the y direction and use newton 1. Then it's geometry.

At the joint where they all meet is at the middle block right? If so, the Force in the y direction 245N down from gravity but the tension is is from the two ropes is the force that counters the force of gravity. So I can make a right triangle, but i only have the hypotenuses' length. I don't have any other angles to figure out the the angle between the ceiling and the roof. I guess I am missing something completely could you let me know what I am doing wrong. Am I not identifying a force correctly?

PhanthomJay
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