Calculating moments of forces/fulcrum PDF file attached

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on calculating forces at a fulcrum in a non-equilibrium scenario, specifically addressing questions related to a physics problem involving a bar and forces applied at points A and B. Participants emphasize the need to apply Newton's Second Law, represented as ∑F = macm and ∑τ = Ifulcrumα, to derive the necessary expressions for force and torque. The importance of considering the moment of inertia of the bar about the fulcrum and the role of gravity in the calculations is also highlighted. Clarification on whether friction is present at the fulcrum is deemed essential for accurate force assessment.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's Second Law (∑F = macm)
  • Knowledge of torque and moment of inertia (∑τ = Ifulcrumα)
  • Familiarity with concepts of equilibrium and non-equilibrium forces
  • Basic principles of mechanics, including the effects of gravity on objects
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of Newton's Second Law in rotational dynamics
  • Learn about calculating moment of inertia for various shapes
  • Investigate the effects of friction at fulcrums in mechanical systems
  • Explore advanced problems involving non-equilibrium forces in physics
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in physics, mechanical engineering, and anyone involved in analyzing forces and torques in mechanical systems.

mt05
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1) see pdf
for question 2 I'm unsure how to calculate the force at the fulcrum since its not in equilibrium. I thought maybe i would add the two forces together, but that doesn't seem right.


2) so this question asks for what forces need to be applied at points A and B and i understand what forces need to be applied at A ( i think ). but at point B wouldn't the fulcrum have to have an equal amount of force pushing up...so 50+20 = 70N...doesn't seem right since the fulcrum isn't centered.

please see pdf attached, thanks in advance
 

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Last edited:
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For question 2
The statement of the problem is missing, so I assume that the mass of the bar is given. Call it m. You need to write two expressions for Newton's Second Law, ∑F = macm and ∑τ = Ifulcrumα. Here Ifulcrum is the moment of inertia of the bar about the fulcrum.

For question 3, is there friction at the fulcrum? If no, then it seems that you have put in the right forces. It is assumed that the fulcrum provides whatever force is necessary to keep the bar at equilibrium.*** On edit ***
Are we to assume that gravity acts on this bar?
 
Last edited:

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