- #1
Emethyst
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Homework Statement
While a fractured tibia is healing, it must be kept horizontal and under some tension. One method of doing this is to support the leg by using a variation of the Russel traction apparatus. The lower leg (including the foot) of a patient weighs 51.5N, which must be supported in the traction apparatus. a) What is the mass of the weight shown? b) What traction force does the apparatus apply along the direction of the leg?
Homework Equations
Newton's second law, pythagorean's theorem, right triangle properties
The Attempt at a Solution
No idea where to start with this. The picture of the situation is provided (if it shows up, hopefully). My idea was to find two equations for the traction force and then sub one into the other to solve for the weight. My first equation was tan46=FN/Fapp, where FN=FG leg + Weight and tan37=weight/Fapp. I think this is wrong though because I get an answer that seems too large for the weight, so I have no idea how to properly go about this question. If anyone can be of assistance it would be greatly appreciated, thanks in advance.