Solving Physics Problems with "Conceptual Physics" 10th Ed.

[Peterson]

INTRODUCTION:
This is a problem from my Introduction to Physical Science class using "Conceptual Physics" 10th Ed.by Paul G. Hewitt

EXACT PROBLEM:
"A 500 kg load is suspended from the end of the horizontal boom, as depicted in the diagram. The angle between the boom and the cable supporting its end is 45 degrees. Assuming that the boom's mass can be neglected compared to that of the load, find:"

PROBLEMS FACED:
a) the tension in the cable
b) the inward force that the boom exerts on the wall

MY THOUGHTS:
What am I doing here?

 

[teknodude]

So what's your plan of attack? Doing a simple sample problem in your text will point you in the right direction

 

[m2003]

As a scientist, my role is to use my knowledge and understanding of physics to solve problems like this one. This problem is asking us to find the tension in the cable and the inward force exerted by the boom on the wall. These are important factors to consider when studying the mechanics of objects in equilibrium. By using the principles of "Conceptual Physics" 10th Ed., we can approach this problem in a systematic and logical manner, utilizing our understanding of concepts such as forces, vectors, and equilibrium.

SOLUTION:
To find the tension in the cable, we can use the formula T = mg/sinθ, where T is the tension, m is the mass, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and θ is the angle between the cable and the horizontal. Plugging in the values given in the problem, we get T = (500 kg)(9.8 m/s^2)/sin45° = 4900 N. This means that the tension in the cable is 4900 Newtons.

To find the inward force exerted by the boom on the wall, we can use the formula F = mg/tanθ, where F is the force, m is the mass, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and θ is the angle between the boom and the horizontal. Since the mass of the boom is negligible compared to the load, we can use the same mass value of 500 kg. Plugging in the values, we get F = (500 kg)(9.8 m/s^2)/tan45° = 5000 N. This means that the inward force exerted by the boom on the wall is 5000 Newtons.

In conclusion, by using the principles and formulas from "Conceptual Physics" 10th Ed., we were able to solve the given problem and find the tension in the cable and the inward force exerted by the boom on the wall. This demonstrates the importance and applicability of conceptual physics in solving real-world problems.