What Is the Tension in the Left Rope When a Person Sits on a Supported Beam?

In summary, the conversation discusses the calculation of tension in a rope supporting a uniform beam with a 400 N person sitting on it, and whether -6 N is the correct answer for the net force on a book held above one's head. The correct tension of the rope is 370 N and the net force on the book is 0 N since it is at rest.
  • #1
future_vet
169
0

Homework Statement


A 10-m uniform beam of weight 100 N is supported by two ropes at its ends. If a 400 N person sits at 2.0 m from the left end of the beam, what is the tension in the left rope?

I thought the answer would be:

The Attempt at a Solution


100*5 + 400*7 = T*10
3300 = T*10

T = 330 N

But it's not correct. What am I doing wrong?

Also:
A book weighs 6 N. When held at rest above your head the net force on the book is? I say -6 N. Is this correct?

Thanks!
 
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  • #2
Ah simple math error. It's 370.
Any feedback for the other question? I have another topic about the same subject that is actually more urgent. Thanks!
 
  • #3
-6 sounds like a good answer?
 
  • #4
The force exerted by your head on the book is 6 N. I would not call this the net force though. The net force on the book is 0 because it is *at rest*.
 
  • #5
ya i think you are right
 

FAQ: What Is the Tension in the Left Rope When a Person Sits on a Supported Beam?

What is static equilibrium?

Static equilibrium is a state in which all forces acting on an object are balanced, resulting in no net force and no acceleration. This means that the object is either at rest or moving at a constant velocity.

How is static equilibrium different from dynamic equilibrium?

Static equilibrium refers to a state of rest or constant motion, while dynamic equilibrium refers to a state of balance in a system that is constantly changing. In static equilibrium, all forces are balanced at a given moment, while in dynamic equilibrium, the forces may change over time but still result in a balanced system.

What role does tension play in static equilibrium?

Tension is a force that occurs when an object is pulled or stretched. In static equilibrium, tension plays a crucial role in balancing out other forces acting on an object. If an object is suspended by a rope, for example, the tension in the rope must be equal to the weight of the object in order for it to remain in static equilibrium.

How can I calculate tension in a system in static equilibrium?

To calculate tension in a system in static equilibrium, you need to consider all the forces acting on the object and use Newton's second law of motion (F=ma) to determine the tension. The sum of all forces in the vertical direction should be equal to the object's weight, and the sum of all forces in the horizontal direction should be equal to zero.

What are some real-life examples of static equilibrium and tension?

Some examples of static equilibrium and tension in everyday life include a book resting on a table, a person pushing a heavy object on a level surface, and a crane lifting a heavy load using cables. In all of these scenarios, the forces acting on the objects are balanced, resulting in static equilibrium.

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