Determining Cable Tension in a Suspended Beam System

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the tension in a cable supporting a uniform beam with two suspended masses. The problem involves concepts from statics and dynamics, particularly focusing on forces and torques acting on the system.

Discussion Character

  • Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the need to sum forces and torques, suggesting a breakdown of forces into components. There is mention of setting up equations based on torque and referencing a textbook example for guidance.

Discussion Status

Some participants have offered guidance on how to approach the problem, including suggestions to analyze forces and torques. However, there is a lack of clarity due to missing visual information, and multiple interpretations of the example referenced are being explored.

Contextual Notes

One participant notes the absence of a diagram, which is crucial for understanding the problem setup. There is also a reference to a specific textbook example that may provide a model for solving the problem.

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Homework Statement


A uniform 20-kilogram beam is supported in a horizontal position by a pin and cable as shown in the figure. Masses M1 and M2 are suspended from the beam. If M1 = 40 kg and M2 = 20 kg, what is the tension in the cable?


Homework Equations


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The Attempt at a Solution


I don't understand
 
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I am sorry. I can not see a figure so I have no idea what the situation is like :(
 
james, sum the forces and sum the torques.

Break the forces into X and y components before you set up your equations

Then figure out which forces actually have torque and set up a ∑tau equation for that. At that point just solve for T. There is an example in your textbook of a problem similar to this one, use that as a model.
 
Which example are you talking about?
 
semaj810 said:
Which example are you talking about?

the one with the man standing on the beam. the only difference is that now you have the forces from the two masses as opposed to just one from the man.
 

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