Calculating Tension in Cables: 1000N Beam with 2000N Filing Cabinet

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a 1000N beam supported by two cables, with a 2000N filing cabinet placed on it. The beam is 8 meters long, and the cabinet is positioned 2 meters from the left cable. Participants are discussing how to calculate the tension in the cables.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to calculate the tension using a formula but finds their answer incorrect. Some participants question the choice of the point about which to take moments, while others suggest taking moments about the right-hand end of the beam.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different approaches to the problem. Guidance has been offered regarding the choice of the point for taking moments, but there is no explicit consensus on the method to be used yet.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of uncertainty regarding the point of moments and a lack of familiarity with the concept. Additionally, some participants inquire about further details of the problem, such as angles or dimensions of the cabinet.

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Homework Statement



A 1000N beam is loaded with a 2000N filing cabinet and supported by two cables. If the beam is 8 meters long and the filing cabinet is 2 meters from the left cable, what is the tension force in each cable?

Homework Equations



T= F /d

The Attempt at a Solution


For the left cable I tried T= 2000 N / 2 m. This answer was incorrect though.
 
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hi astru025! :smile:

What point did you take moments about? :confused:
 
I wasn't sure what point to take moments about... So I didn't take my moments about any certain point. What point should I use? And also I'm not very familiar with the point subject... It is no where in my notes/ or book.
 
Could you elaborate on the question more or is that just given? Plus could you show what you tired to do along with what was said at the back of the book?

edit: Also any angles given or the dimenssion of the cabinent in question?
 
Last edited:
astru025 said:
... So I didn't take my moments about any certain point.

ahhh … that explains it! :biggrin:

ok, take moments (of all forces) about the right-hand end of the beam

show us what you get :smile:​

(we'll discuss why to choose that point when you've done it)
 

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