Explain how the arithmetic sum of the two forces can be greater than the weight that is suspended.

Question

anonymous · Answer

The weight suspended has only a vertical force component. The two supporting forces could be at some other angle and have horizontal components in addition to the vertical reaction to the suspended weight.

azureilai · Answer

Ok, so basically the if I add the horizontal force to the vertical force, it will be greated than the suspended weight?

anonymous · Answer

If I had a diagram to see what you mean, then I'd be more sure.

anonymous · Answer

Can you describe better what it looks like?
This is what I'm imagining:
|dw:1350305974214:dw|

azureilai · Answer

Yes, it looks like that.

azureilai · Answer

Here is the picture we are suppose to work with.

anonymous · Answer

Ok, then it is for the reason I described.
|dw:1350307546828:dw|
The suspended weight, W is balanced by the vertical reactions, F1y and F2y. There are also horizontal reactions, F1x and F2x that balance each other to maintain equilibrium.

The arithmetic sum may be greater, but the vector sum will be the same.

azureilai · Answer

Ok, thanks.