Equilibrium of frame with two masses

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around solving a physics problem involving a frame with two masses and determining the tension (T), angles (γ and β), and the equilibrium of forces. Participants clarify that the frame forms a right triangle and suggest taking torque about a specific point to derive equations. A key point is the combination of gravitational forces into a single resultant force, simplifying the analysis to three forces acting at equilibrium. There is confusion regarding the application of equilibrium principles when forces do not converge at a single point, with explanations provided about moments and their relation to equilibrium. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding force interactions and their resultant effects in solving the problem.
VHAHAHA
Messages
58
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


I need to find the tension T, γ and β in part 2 of this question.
The question is attached.

Homework Equations


First of all, the frame is a right angle triangle because (3L)^2 + (4L)^2 = (5L)^2
take torque about the point O
we got 2LF + mg(4Lcosγ) = Mg(3Lsinγ)
from the balance of force, we got
Tcosβ=(m+M)g + F cos γ
Tsinβ = Fsinγ

The Attempt at a Solution


I have listed these 3 equations but I don't know how to solve them
Please give me some help
 

Attachments

  • question.png
    question.png
    23 KB · Views: 454
Physics news on Phys.org
Hi VHAHAHA! :smile:

Hint: if there were only three forces, they would all have to go through the same point. :wink:
 
tiny-tim said:
Hi VHAHAHA! :smile:

Hint: if there were only three forces, they would all have to go through the same point. :wink:

But i think that there are 4 forces
 
Do u mean that i have to combine 2 gravitational force into 1 combined force so that there is 3 force?
 
(just got up :zzz:)
VHAHAHA said:
Do u mean that i have to combine 2 gravitational force into 1 combined force so that there is 3 force?

Yup! :biggrin:

The two gravitaitonal forces are known, and they're easy to add …

so go for it! :wink:
 
the combined g force = (m+M)g
how do go to the same point? i can't see any common point

btw
Why 3 force will meet at a point if it is at eqm.
It there any proof? thanks
 
VHAHAHA said:
the combined g force = (m+M)g
how do go to the same point? i can't see any common point

Just use the resultant. :smile:

(It goes through the point where you'd have to put the fulcrum if you wanted to balance it)

btw
Why 3 force will meet at a point if it is at eqm.
It there any proof? thanks

Suppose only two forces go through a point …

then, if you take moments about that point, the moments of those two forces will be zero, and the moment of the third force won't! :wink:
 
I don't understand
If we see part 1
T=(M+m)g
but these 3 force don't have the common point
they are parallel
 
VHAHAHA said:
… part 1

but these 3 force don't have the common point
they are parallel

ah, they have a common point "at infinity" :wink:

alternatively, my argument only applied when …
tiny-tim said:
Suppose only two forces go through a point …

… and in part 1, two forces don't go through a point (except "at infinity")! :smile:
 
  • #10
Thank you.
But i still don't understand
There are 4 forces! How to use this rule in part 2 =
 
Back
Top