Question

I’m so confused. Need the help

Answer 1

1.621 kN

Step-by-step explanation:

Let the centerline of the canal be the x-axis. Because the forces exerted by the horses are symmetric to the centerline, only the x-components of these forces contribute to the resultant force on the barge, i.e., the y-components cancel out. Each x-component is equal to $F_x = 839\cos 15$ = 810.4 N. Therefore, the resultant force on the barge is twice this:

$F_{net} = 2(839\:\text{N})\cos 15 = 1620.8\:\text{N}$

$= 1.621\:\text{kN}$