Where Does a Bar on a Fulcrum First Tip When a Person Walks Across It?

In summary, the tipping point of a bar on a fulcrum when a person walks across it depends on the distribution of weight and the position of the fulcrum. As the person approaches one end, the bar will begin to tip in that direction due to the shift in the center of mass and the resultant torque. The exact tipping point can vary based on the weight of the person, the length of the bar, and the location of the fulcrum.
  • #1
JohnnyLaws
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Homework Statement
We have a 4-meter-long uniform bar weighing 100 kg, and a person weighing 75 kg is walking across it. The statement specifies a stationary point C situated 2.5 meters away from the origin where the bar can rotate. The question is: 'What distance can this person move away while keeping the bar in equilibrium?'
Relevant Equations
I believe that I should set all torques equal to 0 and forces too but I don't know How to draw this specific Free body Diagram. On the other hand I don't know why I need point C.
So here is my equations:
Ra = reaction in A
Rx = reaction in person
Wb = bar's weight
Wp = Person's weight

Forces:
Ra+Rx+Wb+Wp = 0
Ra+Rx-100-75 = 0

Torques:

0*Ra+x*Rx-2*100-x*75 = 0
I think that explained all in "Relevant equations".
Here is the image of this exercise:
a.JPG

This is my Free Body Diagram:
b.JPG
 
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  • #2
You have not accounted for all the forces. Doesn't the fulcrum exert a force at point C?
Also, you need an additional equation. What is so special about the point of tipping? In other words what condition must hold for the bar to tip?
 
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  • #3
JohnnyLaws said:
... but I don't know How to draw this specific Free body Diagram.
Simply represent all the known and unknown possible forces acting on the bar.
For example,
Rx = reaction in person
is a real force, but it is not acting on the bar; therefore, it is not interesting regarding resolving the balance of the beam.

Please, see:
https://courses.lumenlearning.com/suny-osuniversityphysics/chapter/5-7-drawing-free-body-diagrams/

Balance bar.png


JohnnyLaws said:
On the other hand I don't know why I need point C.
Please note that:

*The support A only restrains the bar end from moving downwards, but it lets the end go upwards.

*The support C is a pivot, which retrains any movement of the point C, except rotation on the plane of the paper.

*The problem is asking you about the maximum distance that the man can move his weight to the right without inducing the above rorartion.
 
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FAQ: Where Does a Bar on a Fulcrum First Tip When a Person Walks Across It?

What is the principle behind a uniform bar tipping on a fulcrum?

The principle behind a uniform bar tipping on a fulcrum is based on the concept of torque and equilibrium. When a person walks across the bar, their weight creates a torque around the fulcrum. The bar will tip when the torque caused by the person's weight on one side exceeds the torque on the other side.

How do you calculate the tipping point of a uniform bar with a person walking on it?

To calculate the tipping point, you need to set up a torque balance equation around the fulcrum. The bar will tip when the torque due to the person's weight on one side of the fulcrum exceeds the torque due to the weight of the bar on the other side. The equation is: (Weight of person) * (Distance from fulcrum) = (Weight of bar/2) * (Length of bar/2).

What factors affect the tipping point of the bar?

The factors that affect the tipping point include the weight of the person, the weight of the bar, the length of the bar, and the position of the fulcrum. Any changes in these parameters will alter the torque balance and, consequently, the tipping point.

Can the position of the fulcrum change the tipping point?

Yes, the position of the fulcrum significantly affects the tipping point. If the fulcrum is placed closer to one end of the bar, the bar will tip more easily as the person walks towards that end. Conversely, if the fulcrum is placed at the center, the bar will tip when the person reaches the midpoint of the bar.

How can you experimentally determine the tipping point of the bar?

To experimentally determine the tipping point, you can place the bar on the fulcrum and gradually move a known weight (representing the person) along the bar. Measure the distance from the fulcrum at which the bar tips. This distance is the tipping point, and it can be compared with the theoretical calculations for verification.

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