Can I use method of sections anywhere?

[NoobeAtPhysics]

Homework Statement

Find the tension in the rope

Homework Equations

F=ma

The Attempt at a Solution

I was wondering whether I could use method of sections in this problem to divide the two systems so that I could find the tension in the rope.

I have a strong feeling that I won't be able to.. why can't I?

 

[SteamKing]

You don't need the method of sections. You just need to draw a FBD for the bar BD and then write the equations of static equilibrium.

 

[PhanthomJay]

Homework Statement

Find the tension in the rope

Homework Equations

F=ma

The Attempt at a Solution

I was wondering whether I could use method of sections in this problem to divide the two systems so that I could find the tension in the rope.

I have a strong feeling that I won't be able to.. why can't I?

What you are calling "method of sections" is more generally referred to as "free body diagram(FBD)". You can take a FBD anywhere, but is is simplest to take one that cuts through the rope, then apply Newton's laws for the equilibrium case (a = ??) .