Force balance in equilibrium

Steps:

• Resolve forces: tension T balances weight vertically (T cos 30° = 0.15 N) and air force F horizontally (T sin 30° = F).
• Divide horizontal by vertical: F / 0.15 = tan 30°.
• Tan 30° = 1/√3 ≈ 0.577, so F = 0.15 × 0.577 ≈ 0.087 N.
• Matches option B.

Why B is correct:

• From Newton's first law, horizontal force equals weight times tan θ in equilibrium.

Why the others are wrong:

• A: Half the weight, ignores tan 30° factor.
• C: Uses sin 30° instead of tan 30° (0.15 × √3 ≈ 0.26).
• D: Equals weight, assumes 45° deflection.

Final answer: B