How do I solve a tension and torque problem without prior knowledge?

In summary, the conversation discusses a problem where the person is unsure of how to start. They are advised to draw a Free Body Diagram (FBD) and write equations to sum all of the forces and torques to zero. It is also mentioned that an axis needs to be chosen for the torque equation.
  • #1
marinarasauce
1
0
Homework Statement
An 87 cm long metal bar has a mass of .695 kg and is supported by 2 strings

-Find the tension in each string

-Find the center of the mass for the bar relative to the left end of the bar
Relevant Equations
I think we use
Torque= F r sin theta....?
I have no idea where to start or how to do this. I haven't learned this in lecture yet
 

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  • #2
  • #3
Welcome to PF.

marinarasauce said:
I have no idea where to start or how to do this.
With problems like this it's best to start with a Free Body Diagram (FBD) of the object that shows all of the forces acting on it (in this case the two strings pulling up at their contact points with the angles, along with the force of gravity acting down on the bar at it's center of gravity point). Once you have your FBD drawn and labeled, you write the equations to sum all of the forces to zero and to sum all of the torques to zero.

Try sketching that FBD for us and upload it using the "Attach files" link below the Edit window.

EDIT -- Beat out by @kuruman again! :smile:
 
  • #4
To elaborate on @berkeman 's reply, you need to pick an axis for the torque equation. Generally one chooses a point at which some of the forces act so that those do not feature in the equation. Occasionally it pays to pick two axes and write the torque equation for each, but for a single free body that is usually redundant since it can be deduced from the other torque equation and the linear equations.
 

1. What is tension and torque?

Tension and torque are two important concepts in physics and engineering. Tension refers to the pulling force applied to an object, while torque refers to the twisting force applied to an object.

2. How are tension and torque related?

Tension and torque are related to each other through the concept of leverage. When a force is applied to an object at a distance from its axis of rotation, it creates a torque that causes the object to rotate. This rotation creates tension in the object, which is necessary for maintaining equilibrium.

3. What is the difference between tension and torque?

The main difference between tension and torque is the direction in which the force is applied. Tension is a pulling force, while torque is a twisting force. Additionally, tension is typically measured in units of force (such as Newtons), while torque is measured in units of force multiplied by distance (such as Newton-meters).

4. How do tension and torque affect structures?

Tension and torque are important factors in determining the strength and stability of structures. Excessive tension or torque can lead to structural failure, while proper tension and torque can help maintain the integrity of a structure.

5. How can tension and torque problems be solved?

Tension and torque problems can be solved using principles of physics and engineering, such as Newton's laws of motion and the concept of equilibrium. These problems often involve calculating the forces and distances involved in a system, and using these values to determine the tension and torque at different points.

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