Static Equilibrium-Balancing Forces and Torque

In summary, the conversation discusses a scenario where two children of different masses are playing on a teeter-totter. The teeter-totter has a length of 4.0m and a mass of 30.0kg, and is pivoted at its center. The heavier child sits 1.75m from the center, which is 0.50m from the ground. The conversation also mentions using the equation T=r x Fsin(theta) to calculate the torque on each side of the teeter-totter. However, there is confusion about where the 1.0m distance is coming from, as the coordinates of the other child are not specified. Clarification is needed to continue with further calculations.
  • #1
phizics09
38
1

Homework Statement


Two children of masses 45 kg and 30 kg are playing on a teeter-totter of length 4.0m and mass 30.0kg, pivoted at its centre. The heavier child sits 1.75 m from the centre of the teeter-totter that is 0.50 m from the ground. a) What torque does the teeter-totter apply to each of its sides? With this knowledge, how could you simplify any further calculations.

Homework Equations



T=r x Fsin(theta)

The Attempt at a Solution


The example says:
T=rF sin (theta)
T=(1.0 m)(30.0 kg)(9.8 N/kg)
t-t  147 N·m

I don't understand where the one metre is coming from.
Can anyone help me?

 
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  • #2
The question is too vague to answer. It doesn't specify the coordinates of the other child.
 

What is static equilibrium?

Static equilibrium is a state in which all forces acting on an object are balanced, resulting in no net force or acceleration. In other words, the object is not moving or rotating.

What is meant by balancing forces?

Balancing forces refers to the concept that in order for an object to be in static equilibrium, all the forces acting on it must be equal in magnitude and opposite in direction. This ensures that there is no net force acting on the object and it remains at rest.

What is torque and how does it relate to static equilibrium?

Torque is a measure of the force that causes an object to rotate around an axis. In the context of static equilibrium, torque is important because in addition to balancing forces, the sum of all torques acting on the object must also equal zero in order for it to be at rest.

What are the key principles for achieving static equilibrium?

The key principles for achieving static equilibrium are balancing forces and balancing torques. This means that all forces acting on the object must be balanced and the sum of all torques must be equal to zero.

How can one calculate the net torque on an object?

The net torque on an object can be calculated by multiplying the force applied to the object by the distance from the axis of rotation. This is known as the lever arm. The direction of the torque is determined by the direction of the force and the direction of the lever arm.

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