Force exerted by 2 supports on the plank

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In summary, the problem involves a crate with a mass of 7.5 kg placed on a plank at a distance of 3.9m from the left end. The goal is to find the forces exerted by the 2 supports on the plank. Using the torque equation, an answer of 66N is obtained for the first support and an answer in the 400s for the second support. However, the expected answers are 130N and 60N, indicating that something may be missing in the problem statement, such as the mass of the plank.
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pech0706
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Homework Statement


Suppose a crate of mass 7.5 kg is placed on the plank in the figure below, at a distance of 3.9m from the left end. Find the forces exerted by the 2 supports on the plank.


Homework Equations



Torque=radius*force


The Attempt at a Solution


I've used the tourque equation to get an answer around 66 for the force of the first support (the farthest to the left). I'm getting an answer in the 400's for the second support. I know the answers are supposed to be 130 N and 60 N. So, do I need to be using a different equation?
 

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  • #2
A 7.5kg mass only represents a weight of about 73.5N. So something's missing in your problem statement, perhaps the mass of the plank?
 

1. What is the force exerted by 2 supports on the plank?

The force exerted by 2 supports on the plank is the combined weight of the plank and any additional weight placed on it, divided evenly between the two supports.

2. How do you calculate the force exerted by 2 supports on the plank?

The force exerted by 2 supports on the plank can be calculated by dividing the total weight of the plank and any additional weight by the number of supports.

3. Does the distance between the supports affect the force exerted on the plank?

Yes, the distance between the supports does affect the force exerted on the plank. The farther apart the supports are, the more evenly distributed the force will be, resulting in a lower force exerted on each support.

4. What happens if one of the supports is removed?

If one of the supports is removed, the remaining support will have to bear the full weight of the plank and any additional weight. This could potentially lead to the support breaking or the plank bending.

5. What are some real-life examples of 2 supports exerting force on a plank?

Some real-life examples of 2 supports exerting force on a plank can include a person standing on a seesaw, a bookshelf supported by two bookends, or a bridge supported by two pillars.

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