Solve Torque Question: Will Free Point B Go Up?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a torque problem involving a system of rigid, massless rods pivoted at points A and C, with a mass m affecting the system's balance. The key equations derived include the torque balance equation ∑T = mgr_b - Fr_c = 0 and the conditions for upward movement of point B, concluding that point B can indeed move upwards despite initial counterintuitive assumptions. The analysis emphasizes the importance of considering translational conditions at the pivot point C.

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This discussion is beneficial for physics students, mechanical engineers, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of rigid body systems and torque analysis.

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Homework Statement



http://img21.imageshack.us/img21/7103/fig1jpg.png

The rods in the system are rigid and massless. The only mass in the system is that of the weight (mass m).

The system as a whole is pivoted at a point A. The lower rod is pivoted at a point C.

If the system is set correctly, will the free point B go up?

The Attempt at a Solution



Of course there's first the torque T of the lower rod. It is supposed to be in balance so the sum must be zero. If the gravitational force acting on the mass is mg, then there is some force F acting on the point where the upper and lower rods meet.

\sum T = mgr_b - Fr_c = 0 \Rightarrow F=mg\frac{r_b}{r_c}

(It seems my latex code is not working, so..)

T = mgrb - Frc = 0 --> F=mg (rb / rc)

When considering the whole system, we can think of the mass m as acting at the point C, so that it tries to rotate the whole system down.

T_{down}=mgr_a

Tdown=mgra

On the other hand, if the lower rod is kept stationary, the there must be a force equal to F acting at the point r_a + r_c.

T_{up}=F(r_a + r_c)

Tup=F(ra+rc)

So yes... the point B can move upwards. But this seems so counter-intuitive to me. I surely have missed something or done something wrong.
 
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Edit:

Of course... I've completely forgotten translational conditions. The pivotal point C is not translationally at rest.
 
Last edited:

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